Orlagh Neary, Former VP of Quantum Ecosystem Engagement & GTM At Microsoft On Building AI &

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 11:39:46 +0000

What if the future of computing isn’t about choosing between AI, LLMs, or quantum—but about weaving them into one unstoppable force? In this compelling episode of Discover Dialogues, Nikhil Sonawane, Media Relations Lead sits down with Orlagh Neary— Former Quantum and AI Leader, and General Manager of Go-to-Market Strategy at Microsoft. With over 25 years of experience driving deep tech evolution, Orlagh has launched pioneering initiatives like Quantum Ready, helped scale global AI programs, and brought the world’s first quantum processor powered by topological qubits (Majorana 1) into the spotlight.But she’s not just here to talk tech—she’s here to talk transformation.We dive deep into the “dream team” of modern computing:• The “Dream Team” trio: Why AI is the detective, LLMs are the translator, and quantum is the explorer• How businesses can futureproof themselves—not just with quantum innovation, but by being quantum safe• The GTM challenge: how to make cutting-edge science resonate with business decision-makers• The human-first approach to deep tech ecosystems: why alignment matters more than perfectionTimestamp:00:00 Introduction02:35 Professional Journey 19:50 The Power Triangle – AI, Quantum, and LLMs 35:10 Quantum Safe – What It Really Means 48:59 Rapid FireYou’ll hear how Orlagh frames tech not by complexity—but by clarity. She connects with business decision-makers not by pushing hype, but by solving for urgency, clarity, and competitive edge. Her approach: communicate without jargon, build with partners who share your "why", and always keep humans in the loop.She also introduces a tangible concept of being Quantum Ready—which isn’t about running quantum workloads today, but preparing your people, processes, partners, and priorities to adopt them when the moment arrives.Whether you’re in product, strategy, or innovation—or simply curious about what’s next—this conversation is a masterclass in turning complexity into clarity and hype into grounded transformation.About Orlagh Neary:Orlagh Neary is the General Manager of Quantum and AI Ecosystem Engagement & GTM at Microsoft, where she leads global strategies to bring deep tech innovations like quantum computing and AI into the enterprise mainstream. With over 25 years of experience at the forefront of emerging technology, Orlagh has helped shape the go-to-market playbook for transformative categories across cloud, data, federal, telecom, and now quantum systems.She spearheaded Microsoft’s Quantum Ready program, drove the global launch of Majorana 1 (the world’s first quantum processor using topological qubits), and built Microsoft’s first AI GTM team—leading initiatives like AI Business School, AI for Health, and Responsible AI.Orlagh also serves on the Board of Advisors for Cambrian Futures and is a SteerCo Member for UNESCO’s International Year of Quantum, where she helps guide global education and ecosystem development efforts.Known for combining technical foresight with GTM precision, she champions responsible innovation and partnership-driven growth—believing that scaling impact requires alignment, not just advancement.About Discover Dialogues:Discover Dialogues is TechDogs’ flagship podcast series where technology meets real-world impact. The show features unfiltered conversations with industry leaders, founders, and innovators who are building what’s next.