Blackline Safety appoints Vasi Philomin to boost AI strategy
Blackline Safety has appointed Vasi Philomin, Executive Vice President, Data and AI at Siemens, to its Board of Directors.
Philomin's appointment is set to support Blackline Safety's advancement of its artificial intelligence (AI) strategy, focusing on making greater use of real-time safety and productivity data. The appointment will become effective on early September 2025. Philomin joins Blackline Safety bringing a background in enterprise AI, industrial internet of things (IoT), and large-scale software platforms.
Before his current role at Siemens, Philomin was Vice President & General Manager, Generative AI at Amazon. In this position, he led the development of Amazon Bedrock, a platform that helps enterprises build and scale generative AI applications. He also guided the generative AI and product strategy at AWS, including the development and deployment of foundation models using Bedrock.
Earlier in his career, Philomin worked at Philips, pioneering connected lighting solutions for municipalities and high-profile sites including the Empire State Building and the Bay Bridge. He holds more than 100 US patents and has a Ph.D. in Computer Science, alongside Master's degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science from the University of Maryland.
AI expertise
Philomin's arrival is intended to help Blackline Safety further its capabilities in using data and AI to protect workers globally. His experience in scaling hardware-enabled SaaS (HeSaaS) platforms is expected to support Blackline's mission of improving worker protection and productivity through connected data.
"Vasi's leadership at the intersection of AI, cloud, and industrial technology is uniquely aligned with Blackline's mission to transform safety through connectivity and data-driven intelligence. His insights into AI and proven success in scaling HeSaaS businesses will bring invaluable expertise as we advance predictive safety, real-time situational awareness, and next-generation services that protect workers worldwide," said Cody Slater, CEO and Chair of Blackline Safety.
Addressing his new position, Philomin described his motivation and perspective on Blackline Safety's direction, stating:
"Blackline's leadership in IoT-enabled safety - giving organizations the data they need to make better decisions - is truly inspiring. I'm excited to contribute to Blackline's next chapter, helping unlock even more value from that powerful data to ensure every worker returns home safely."
Background and experience
As Executive Vice President, Data and AI at Siemens, Philomin oversees the development of the company's AI portfolio across industrial applications. This experience is seen as highly relevant to Blackline's aim of delivering connected safety through technology and analytics. His earlier achievements include steering new solutions for both urban and landmark projects, in addition to his significant patent portfolio, highlighting his technical and commercial track record in the technology sector.
Blackline Safety currently provides connected devices and analytics for personal and area gas monitoring, as well as cloud-linked software to improve safety and operations. The company has reported over 286 billion data-points and managed more than eight million emergency alerts, serving customers in over 75 countries.
Philomin's appointment is part of Blackline Safety's broader strategy to use technology - especially AI and real-time data - to address industrial safety challenges and support operational performance. His role is anticipated to reinforce the focus on data-driven services for workers and organisations globally.
