Today, we are interviewing Walter Varela, General Manager at Iotblue, a software company specialising in platforms for physical security management and control room operations for critical infrastructure.
1. Could you briefly explain what Iotblue does?
We are the creators of blueOS, the Cognitive Operating System for control rooms, an integrated suite that brings physical security management, critical event resolution and intelligent resource dispatching together on a single platform.
2. In a market with so many security and operations management solutions, what problem did you identify that was not being properly addressed, and how did Iotblue emerge to meet that need?
We identified a recurring problem in the sector: an overwhelming volume of unfiltered alarms and a multitude of disconnected systems that forced operators to constantly switch between multiple applications.
To address this fragmentation, we created blueOS, designed to revolutionise the sector by moving from purely passive security towards a cognitive platform capable of achieving a 50:1 reduction in operational noise through correlated analytics.
3. How does a client’s day-to-day operation change after implementing your platform? Could you share an example of how it improves security management or decision-making?
We transform traditional, manual operations into an interactive Digital Twin supported by digitised Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
High-impact real-world cases — such as the Egyptian Ministry of Interior and the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo — demonstrate how our technology can achieve drastic reductions in response times and substantial improvements in strategic decision-making.
4. Many providers offer platforms that integrate data and systems. What makes a client choose Iotblue and continue to trust the company over time?
Our main differentiating advantage is a fully open, vendor-independent architecture, compatible with more than 40 integration protocols. This allows us to protect our clients’ existing investments in hardware while adding layers of intelligence to the day-to-day operation of their complex and critical infrastructures.
5. How has Iotblue established itself in the Region of Madrid?
Over our 10-year track record, we have established ourselves through the deployment of major projects, primarily in the Middle Eastern market. After reaching this level of international maturity, we decided to embark on our “return home.” From our headquarters in Madrid, we are bringing all this experience to bear in order to establish a strong position in both the regional and national markets.
6. Where does Iotblue stand today, and what are the next steps in your growth strategy?
We are currently at a key stage of consolidation in the Middle East and acceleration in Spain. From a technological perspective, we are taking a rigorous and controlled approach to artificial intelligence, integrating prescriptive engines to support decision-making in control rooms.
All of this is guided by a clear human-in-the-loop philosophy, in which AI enhances human judgement without replacing final human oversight.
7. Why did you choose the Region of Madrid as one of your key locations? What advantages does Madrid offer compared with other cities?
Madrid stands out for bringing together three key competitive factors:
- A high concentration of highly skilled technical talent.
- A robust regulatory framework and legal certainty.
- Strategic international connectivity, which is essential for managing global operations.
8. How would you rate your collaboration with Invest in Madrid?
For us, it is a key strategic partnership. Their support has been instrumental in strengthening our institutional network, facilitating a smooth and agile operational set-up, and accelerating our business connections across the region.
9. How many jobs are you creating in the Region of Madrid? What kind of profiles are you looking for?
Our plan is to increase our workforce to 50 employees (around 16 positions in Madrid) over the next two years. We are creating high-value-added employment across two main areas:
- Technology profiles: Advanced software engineering (Low-Code platforms, IoT, AI/ML), C4I command centre solutions architects, and OT/IT cybersecurity experts.
- Corporate profiles: Key professionals to support our growth in sales and marketing.
10. Would you recommend the Region of Madrid to other foreign investors considering expanding their business beyond their home markets?
Absolutely. Madrid offers the perfect balance between a dynamic business ecosystem and an excellent quality of life, providing the ideal environment for scaling complex technology operations.