We are excited to introduce Mikel, one of the Crowd Threat founding contributors shaping
the intelligence ecosystem within our Crowd community. Mikel brings a unique blend of
expertise and insight to the critical work of crowdsourcing threats. In our first edition of 'The
Crowd Spotlight,' we dive into Mikel's journey, motivations, and perspective on the evolving
landscape of global security and collaborative intelligence.

Who are you, and what is your background?

I am a geopolitical risk and security analyst with over seven years of international experience
across public institutions and the private sector. I previously worked as a Security
Operations Specialist at INTERPOL, supporting governments and law enforcement agencies
on security coordination, crisis response and intelligence sharing during high-impact
international events. I have also held roles in private intelligence and corporate security in
the UK and Spain, delivering geopolitical analysis, due diligence and strategic risk reporting
for multinational clients.

Now based in Bilbao, along with localised investigative support for overseas insurers with
interest in the region, my work focuses on geopolitical instability, misinformation and their
impact on institutional resilience, strategic decision-making and operational continuity.

What originally drew you to Joining the Crowd?

Working alongside the Crowd allows me to stay continuously sharp, exposed to diverse risk
environments and evolving threat dynamics. I also have known Michael McCabe since the
very beginning of my career, and have followed his career and his companies’ development
closely over the years. Collaborating again now feels like a natural continuation of a long-
standing professional alignment built on trust and shared standards.

In a world of increasing geopolitical volatility, what are your thoughts on
crowdsourcing threat intelligence?

In an increasingly volatile geopolitical environment, crowdsourcing threat intelligence makes
complete sense - mostly for companies and decision-makers who want to take advantage of
threat analysis capabilities. It expands situational awareness, captures early warning signals
and reflects realities on the ground faster than traditional models alone.

Having said that, I believe I have to highlight the role of vetted security and intelligence
professionals who oversee the process — to validate inputs, assess credibility and provide
context. Used this way, crowdsourcing becomes a powerful complement to expert-led
analysis.

What is the most rewarding part of this profession that you’d want a newcomer to
look forward to as they grow?

I find the process of influencing meaningful decision-making both fascinating and deeply
motivating at a personal and professional level. Understanding how information, context and
timing shape strategic choices is what draws me to this field. At the same time, I continue to
develop a strong passion for geopolitics and its real-world impact. It is this combination that
drives my work and keeps my analysis going.

Mikel’s contact details
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mirizar/
mikel.irizar@proton.me