Saudi Arabia: French aerospace and defense firm Thales has appointed Bernard Roux as its new CEO for Saudi Arabia and Central Asia as the company vowed to increase its number of workers from the Kingdom.

The announcement was made during the Future Investment Initiative forum held in Riyadh. 

Roux will lead the firm’s operations across the region, working alongside established key partners in Saudi Arabia to support the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan, while also supporting the company’s expanding reach in Central Asia from the regional headquarters in Riyadh.

In a statement accompanying the announcement, the new CEO made it clear that he wants to see more Saudis working for Thales as part of a commitment to “hire and nurture local talent.”

He said: “In the coming months, we will be launching a series of initiatives, partnerships, and opportunities aimed at providing aspiring professionals with the tools they need to thrive in the technology industry. 

“This includes positions at Thales in Saudi Arabia that will prioritize the hiring of Saudi nationals, providing local talent with mentorship and career development resources.

“To the talent in Saudi Arabia, we want to hear from you, and we want to support your dreams and ambitions. “

In alignment with the Vision 2030 strategy to diversify the Saudi economy and localize over 50 percent of military equipment spending, in 2020 the company established SAMI Thales Electronic Systems – a joint venture with Saudi Arabian Military Industries with an aim to build local capabilities in the Kingdom. 

Alongside the announcement of the new regional CEO, Thales also signed a strategic agreement with the Royal Commission for AlUla to secure the heritage site and historical landmarks at the site.

Thales is providing the RCU with an integrated security system based on an artificial intelligence-enabled smart digital platform and mission-critical communications to secure a number of areas in the city.

Roux said: “We are honored to be part of this exceptional project, to contribute to the security and safety of this unique historical and tourist destination, AlUla, and to the quality of life of its inhabitants with advanced digital and integrated technologies. 

“Drawing on its international and local expertise, Thales is committed to driving forward RCU’s smart and sustainable city development goals in line with the Saudi Vision 2030.”