Appointment of Michel Pioro-Ladrière as Executive Director of Distriq, Quantum Innovation Zone

The board of directors of Distriq, Quantum Innovation Zone is pleased to announce the appointment of Michel Pioro-Ladrière as Executive Director. He will take office on September 8, 2025.

With a solid background in quantum physics, technological entrepreneurship, and innovation ecosystem development, Michel Pioro-Ladrière will bring his leadership and vision to support the development of the zone, maximize its local benefits, strengthen its strategic partnerships, and contribute to the growth of the quantum ecosystem in Quebec, Canada and its leadership internationally.

Before joining Distriq, Quantum Innovation Zone, Michel Pioro-Ladrière was Vice-President of Strategy and Partnerships at Nord Quantique, where he helped position the company among the most promising global players in quantum computing. He was also a full professor at the University of Sherbrooke, co-founder of the Quantum Institute, and instigator of the first bachelor's degree in quantum sciences in the Francophonie. He contributed to the training of numerous students and the startup of enterprises stemming from applied research, in addition to developing a global network of scientific and entrepreneurial collaborations. Recognized for his role as a builder, he has been able to create bridges between academic research, industry, and governments to foster an ecosystem now considered one of the most dynamic in the world.

As General Director, Michel Pioro-Ladrière will be tasked with driving the zone's strategy, ensuring its growth, supporting the innovative companies that make it up, and attracting new partners to Sherbrooke and Quebec. He will also ensure that Distriq continues to gather energies and talents, so that Distriq becomes a reflection of a collective ambition focused on the future.

We wish him much success in his new role.