Government advert for quantum chief sparks criticism over lack of subject expertise

The UK government has opened applications for a deputy head of the Office for Quantum, a Grade 6 position paying £69,675 a year. The advert, published on Tuesday, makes clear that candidates do not need a background in quantum science, only skills in leadership, communication and commercial awareness.

Why expertise matters for a £2bn programme

The role will sit at the heart of a £2 billion quantum investment plan announced earlier this year, including a £1.2 billion allocation for the purchase of large‑scale quantum computers under the ProQure programme. Critics argue that steering such high‑value, technically complex spending without subject‑matter knowledge is risky.

"The person in charge of purchasing quantum computers is not expected to have a background in quantum," said Ameer Kotecha, chief executive of the Centre for Government Reform and former Foreign Office civil servant.

Kotecha, speaking to City AM, questioned how a non‑expert could engage with world‑leading physicists at the National Physical Laboratory and UKRI. He warned that the lack of a technical requirement could leave private‑sector innovators without a knowledgeable government point of contact.

What the role could shape

The successful applicant will help direct quantum infrastructure funding, liaise with domestic and overseas investors, and support government departments in adopting the technology. While the advert lists experience in science, technology or industrial policy as desirable, it is not essential.

Britain has built a sizable research base, accounting for more than a tenth of global quantum companies, and aims to turn early academic leadership into commercial success. The government also pledged £10 million to a National Quantum Standards Network to set technical standards as products move toward market readiness.

With the United States and China pouring resources into quantum research and defence applications, the UK sees the sector as a strategic priority. Liz Kendall, former tech secretary, has warned that without competitive funding, British start‑ups may drift to the US.

The vacancy arrives amid wider civil‑service concerns following the restructuring of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. Observers say frequent rotations and a focus on generic management behaviours can erode deep expertise, a problem that may be amplified by this high‑stakes appointment.

What comes next is likely to involve heightened scrutiny from industry groups and possibly a revision of the recruitment criteria. If the government proceeds without adjusting the skill requirements, it could face pressure to appoint a technically qualified deputy or to embed specialist advisers within the office.