IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), a quantum computing company focused on developing and commercializing quantum systems, has announced the appointment of national security veteran Katie Arrington as its Chief Information Officer (CIO). Arrington will join the company’s executive team on January 19, 2026, reporting to Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer Inder Singh. In a parallel leadership move, IonQ said Leslie Kershaw will transition into an expanded role as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), reporting to Arrington.
The appointments come at a time when quantum computing is gaining increased attention from governments and enterprises as a technology with potential implications for defense, economic competitiveness, and long-term data security. As IonQ expands its commercial footprint and government engagements, the company is placing greater emphasis on enterprise resilience, cybersecurity, and secure technology deployment.
In her new role, Arrington will be responsible for overseeing IonQ’s global information systems, including the protection and modernization of enterprise infrastructure, digital assets, and supply chains. Her mandate also includes strengthening operational and cyber resilience across IonQ’s growing international operations. The company said her appointment reflects a broader effort to align its internal systems and security posture with the strategic importance of quantum technologies.
Arrington brings extensive experience from the U.S. Department of War, where she most recently performed the duties of Chief Information Officer. In that position, she advised senior leadership on enterprise information management, satellite communications, spectrum capabilities, cyber assurance, and policies related to space and emerging technologies. Previously, as Deputy CIO for Cybersecurity, she led defense-wide oversight of cyber strategy, governance, and compliance.
Earlier in her federal career, Arrington served as Chief Information Security Officer for Acquisition and Sustainment, where she played a central role in developing the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). The framework was designed to strengthen cybersecurity standards across the defense industrial base and protect sensitive data within government supply chains. She also contributed to efforts to apply artificial intelligence to improve supply chain visibility during the COVID-19 response. Outside government, Arrington has held senior roles at Exiger, Booz Allen Hamilton, Centuria Corporation, and Dispersive Networks.
IonQ Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Niccolo de Masi said Arrington’s background in national security and emerging technology policy aligns with the company’s long-term objectives. He described quantum computing as a strategically significant technology and said Arrington’s experience will support IonQ’s efforts to scale responsibly while maintaining strong security standards.
Alongside Arrington’s appointment, Leslie Kershaw will assume expanded responsibilities as CISO, overseeing enterprise cybersecurity, physical security, and compliance with federal and commercial security requirements. Kershaw brings nearly 20 years of cyber leadership experience, including service as Cyber Technical Director for Space Delta 6 within the U.S. Space Force, where she led cyber architecture and operational readiness across multiple global locations.
According to Singh, Kershaw’s experience in operational cybersecurity will help ensure IonQ’s systems and platforms can support mission-critical use cases as the company grows.
