GICAN and GICAT announce the appointment of Gabriel Hofmann as Representative for the Middle East. Based in Riyadh, he will support the development of initiatives in the region and strengthen the support provided to members of both groups, primarily in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Oman.
A graduate of Sciences Po Paris, Gabriel Hofmann holds a master’s degree in public affairs, including seminars focused on the defense industry. He also holds a master’s degree in international relations with a regional focus on the Middle East. This background will enable him to fully grasp the institutional and industrial dynamics in the region.
Within the French diplomatic network, Gabriel Hofmann has gained a detailed understanding of the mechanisms of international cooperation and the interactions between public and private actors. First at the Chancellery of the French Embassy in Tanzania, then at the Directorate for Security and Defense Cooperation, he undertook missions involving monitoring, analysis, support for economic actors, and institutional representation, which will enable him to effectively support French companies. His service in the Army’s mountain troops has equipped him with an operational understanding of defense and security issues, which he will draw upon to identify capability needs
In his new role, he will help strengthen members’ ties with local stakeholders, map the regional defense industry, analyze procurement processes and offset policies, and monitor opportunities and potential partners. He will also represent the French naval, land, and air-land sectors at industry events in the region.
“I am very pleased to join GICAN and GICAT to support our members in the Middle East amid a sensitive geopolitical context. This mission is fully in line with my commitment to advancing our country’s strategic influence. I am dedicated to working on the ground to strengthen ties with our international partners and promote French industrial excellence,” said Gabriel Hofmann.
