Thales appoints Bernard Roux as new CEO for Saudi Arabia and Central Asia during the Future Investment Initiative
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 24 October 2023 – Thales, a global leader in the Defence & Security, Aeronautics & Space, and Digital Identity & Security sectors, has appointed Bernard Roux as CEO for its rapidly growing business in Saudi Arabia and Central Asia, with responsibility across a diverse area including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.
This role will see him lead crucial growth for Thales across the region, working alongside established key partners in Saudi Arabia to support the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, while also supporting the Group’s expanding reach in Central Asia from the regional headquarters in Riyadh.
Bernard Roux said: “Thales places strong emphasis on adapting its innovations and investments to support local market needs and incorporate regional resources, whether in proven markets or developing ones. We work to ensure we leverage the unique advantages of each country to support sustainable economic development.”
As the former CEO of Thales Group in the UAE, Bernard Roux is well established in the region. His 15 years with Thales have seen him developing markets across Asia, including China, Hong Kong and Mongolia, where he gained strengths and expertise in strategic vision, change management and defense that he will bring to this new role.
In alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to diversify the economy and localize over 50 per cent of military equipment spending, the Group established SAMI Thales Electronic Systems (STES) a joint venture with Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) with an aim to build local capabilities in the Kingdom. The Group also works closely with local entities including Royal Commission of AlUla (RCU), with the National Security Services Company (SAFE), Saudi Telecom Company, Saudi Aerospace Engineering Industries, and Saudi Navigation for the maintenance management system developed by Saudi Air Navigation Services (SANS).
Speaking about his appointment, Bernard Roux added: “I am delighted to be appointed CEO for Thales in Saudi Arabia and Central Asia, a region that is implementing a rapid uptake in cutting-edge technology across industries. It is an exciting time in the Kingdom, and we believe that Thales’ global reach, resources, and proven partnership for more than 50 years, have a central role to play in the Kingdom’s accelerating development and the attainment of the Vision 2030 targets.
Our mission has always been to build a future we can all trust. At Thales in KSA, we are committed to creating innovative solutions and fostering growth for a more vibrant society. We are taking a significant step towards supporting our team in Saudi Arabia by intensifying our commitment to hire and nurture local talent through Saudization. Together, we can create a future where our community’s brightest minds drive innovation and lead us to new horizons. Together, we can build a safer, greener, more inclusive world.
Our growing work in Central Asia over the last 12 years, shows how the wider region is embracing innovation and progress. Thales aims to be a trusted partner in that journey, providing solutions across key sectors and building strong relationships.”
