Paloma Castellano Sanz

Director, Wayra

Speaker Bio

Paloma Castellano, Director of Wayra Madrid since 2011, has played a pivotal role in the growth of Telefónica's open innovation hub. A Computer Engineer from the Universidad Complutense de Madrid with an Executive MBA from IE, Paloma began her career at Microsoft and later became a Project Manager at Terra. She then joined Telefónica as a TV Product Owner, contributing significantly to the launch and management of innovative products like mobile TV.


Paloma later took on international challenges, working with the CEO of CNC Labs in China to design and implement the company's strategic plan. Upon her return to Spain, she spearheaded the development of the mobile broadband business. In 2011, she became a key member of Wayra's founding team, contributing to its global launch.


Throughout her career, Paloma has invested in over 100 startups, including Voicemod, Countercraft, Idoven, Brandtrack, Devengo, Depasify, Crossmint, and Indya, among many others. Her efforts have not only fueled the success of these startups but also generated business opportunities with Telefónica valued at +200 million euros.