Dr. Richard Padbury

Dr. Richard P. Padbury is a Director of Quantum Research in KPMG’s Emerging Technology practice, where he focuses on applied research in quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and data-driven innovation. He helps organizations translate emerging technologies from scientific exploration into enterprise-ready capabilities with practical business value. 

Richard brings more than a decade of experience across industry and academia, working at the intersection of research, technology, and business strategy. His work spans quantum algorithms, applied AI, interdisciplinary research initiatives, and ecosystem development across industries including financial services, automotive, healthcare, aerospace, and materials science. 

At KPMG, Richard leads cross-functional research initiatives that advance enterprise readiness and identify high-value use cases for quantum computing and AI. He specializes in building research ecosystems, developing strategic partnerships, and translating scientific advancements into practical capabilities that drive measurable impact. 

Before joining KPMG, Richard served as Director, Research and Ecosystem at Bank of Montreal, where he helped build and operationalize the bank’s quantum and advanced research strategy, including secure research environments, governance models, and strategic partnerships. He also held leadership roles at IBM Quantum, where he served as Global Lead for Commercial Ecosystem and GSI Partnerships, helping systems integrators and consultancies build quantum practices and go-to-market capabilities. [

Earlier in his career, Richard held technology and engineering roles at Lucideon and MANN+HUMMEL, delivering R&D programs, securing applied research opportunities, and advancing product development and academic partnership initiatives.

His areas of focus include quantum computing and quantum algorithms, artificial intelligence and machine learning, data-driven modeling, emerging technology commercialization, research strategy, and ecosystem and partnership development, with a strong emphasis on enabling enterprise innovation.

Richard is an Adjunct Assistant Professor at North Carolina State University and collaborates with global research ecosystems, including the Chicago Quantum Exchange and Quantum Delta NL. He holds a Ph.D. in Polymer Science from North Carolina State University and a B.Sc. (Hons) in Physics from the University of Manchester (UK).