UK-based quantum technology company Moth has announced two senior hires as it expands its operations in the United States, marking a significant step in its mission to make quantum computing accessible to businesses and consumers.
The company has appointed Sebastian Hassinger as Head of Business Development and Stewart Smith as Head of Product. Both will be based at Mothโs new US office at New Lab, which will serve as a strategic hub for growth across North America.
The hires strengthen the companyโs credibility in the global market, with both bringing experience from leading technology organisations Amazon and IBM.
The appointments bolster an already strong and diverse team, reinforcing Mothโs position as one of the most innovative and forward-thinking companies in the UK technology sector.
Moth is pioneering a new approach to quantum computing-moving it beyond theory and the lab into real-world applications. Over the past 18 months, the company has demonstrated working quantum-powered software through projects such as Recurse and its Space Moths computer game, signalling a major shift in how quantum technology can be used in media, entertainment and creative industries.
Sebastian Hassinger brings experience from the forefront of emerging technologies. His career spans the early commercialisation of the internet through to quantum computing, with senior roles at IBM Quantum and Amazonโs quantum technologies team. He has built foundational technologies including Appleโs first customer support website and IBMโs early internet systems management tools, and holds multiple patents. He is a seasoned consultant in quantum computing and market analysis, and has co-hosted some of the sectorโs leading podcasts.
Stewart Smith brings a unique blend of creativity and technology from his experience at Unity, Google, and Amazon. A Yale-trained designer and founder of quantum creativity platform Parq, Smith has worked at the intersection of AI, advanced computing and art. His work has been exhibited globally, including at MoMA and the Venice Biennale, and he has collaborated on cutting-edge projects including visualising artificial intelligence in orbit with Google Suncatcher. His appointment reflects Mothโs ambition to redefine how quantum technology is experienced and used.
Moth CEO Sean Harpur, said:ย โWeโre delighted that Sebastian and Stewart have joined Moth. They both excel in their fields and bring enormous expertise, industry experience and new thinking to our growing enterprise. As we expand into the US, their experience and perspective will be invaluable in helping us scale and deliver on our vision.โ
Speaking about his new role Sebastian Hassinger, said: โIโm really excited to be joining a team thatโs ahead of the curve in the delivery of a viable quantum computing value proposition. Moth has taken quantum out of the lab and into the real world – thatโs what makes this opportunity so exciting.โ
Stewart Smith, said: โFor years Iโve been excited by the idea of making quantum computing accessible to everyone. Moth takes that interest and elevates it to another level entirely; challenging me to do the best work of my career by making that dream of quantum accessibility not just a reality – but a fun reality.โ
The US expansion is a key milestone in Mothโs growth, with the New Lab office operating as a strategic centre rather than a traditional startup outpost.
While still a relatively young business, Moth is rapidly establishing itself as a standout player in the UK tech ecosystem breaking new ground in quantum computing and developing software that brings its potential into practical, real-world use.
By focusing on accessible, application-driven quantum technology, Moth is aiming to become one of the first companies to deliver quantum-powered tools that are actively used by businesses and consumers – unlocking new possibilities across industries, particularly in media and entertainment.
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