Quantum computing may feel like a distant part of the future, but many experts believe its widespread adoption could arrive sooner than expected. And with it comes a profound challenge: today’s encryption, which protects global cybersecurity, banking, digital identity, and confidential communication, may no longer be secure.
So what happens when quantum computers can break the cryptography that protects our most sensitive information?
In this special Alice in Wonderland-themed episode of Tech Tomorrow, David Elliman speaks with Dr. Sarah McCarthy, Quantum Readiness Programme Lead at Citi, to explore the looming post-quantum era. Together, they discuss what executives, security leaders, and organisations need to understand about quantum risk, how to prepare now, and why waiting may already be too late.
Through playful Wonderland metaphors inspired by Lewis Carroll, including the Red Queen’s race and the Garden of Talking Flowers, David and Sarah explain complex security concepts with clarity and imagination. They outline what quantum computing really is, how modern cryptography works, why cryptographic agility matters, and what could happen if organisations fail to adapt in time.
The conversation emphasises that leaders must first understand their organisation’s current cryptographic estate, then develop a strategy that allows their systems to adapt and evolve, and finally begin taking practical steps today to ensure readiness well before ‘Q-Day’ arrives.
Episode Highlights
00:34 – Introducing the Wonderland theme and framing the topic.
02:13 – What is quantum cryptography, and why does it matter?
03:5 – How modern cryptography protects everyday digital life.
06:16 –
David Through the Looking Glass: Understanding the Red Queen’s Race.
07:23 – Why security strategies must evolve continuously.
09:24 – Cryptographic agility and how leaders can practice it.
11:22 – The urgency behind quantum readiness.
15:49 –
David Through the Looking Glass: The Garden of Talking Flowers and digital estate management.
16:32 – Practical, actionable steps executives can take today.
19:59 – What is Q-Day, and when might it arrive?
22:30 –
David Through the Looking Glass: The White Rabbit of quantum security.
23:03 – Which companies are making progress in quantum-safe security?
24:38 – Can our secrets survive the quantum leap?
About Zühlke:
Zühlke is a global transformation partner, with engineering and innovation at its core. We help clients envision and build their businesses for the future – running smarter today while adapting for tomorrow’s markets, customers, and communities.
Our multidisciplinary teams specialise in technology strategy and business innovation, digital solutions and applications, and device and systems engineering. We thrive in complex, regulated sectors such as healthcare and finance, connecting strategy, implementation, and operations to help clients build more effective and resilient businesses.
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What is Tech Tomorrow?
Tech Tomorrow is your front-row seat to the conversations redefining the future. Each episode explores one big question about data, AI, or emerging tech, giving leaders clear, focused answers they can trust. If you're navigating complex innovation, from AI-augmented delivery to sustainability, this show helps you cut through the noise, connect cross-disciplinary trends, and lead with confidence in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Previously known as Data Today, this podcast has examined how out-of-the-box thinking around data can be used for good in our world. Now, Tech Tomorrow expands its scope, diving into topics like agentic systems, cybersecurity consulting, and AI in product development.
Host David Elliman is Chief of Software Engineering at Zühlke. With 40 years of experience in technology and innovation, David is a global leader and advisor. Specialising in building enterprise-scale solutions and adopting emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and cloud computing, David offers technical consulting worldwide.
About Zühlke
Zühlke is a global transformation partner, with engineering and innovation in our DNA. We're trusted to help clients envision and build their businesses for the future – to run smarter today while adapting for tomorrow’s markets, customers, and communities.
Our multidisciplinary teams specialise in tech strategy and business innovation, digital solutions and applications, and device and systems engineering. We excel in complex, regulated spaces including health and finance, connecting strategy, tech implementation, and operational services to help clients become more effective, resilient businesses.