In a historic moment for British intelligence, Blaise Metreweli has been appointed as the first woman to lead MI6 in its 116-year history. Image: UK Foreign Office/AP
In a historic moment for British intelligence, MI6 will be led by a woman for the first time in its 116-year history. The 47-year-ol Blaise Metreweli, began her career with the Secret Intelligence Service in 1999, has been appointed as the agency’s 18th chief. She is set to succeed Sir Richard Moore later this year.
Metreweli is currently overseeing technology and innovation within the service and expressed that she feels “proud and honored” to have been chosen for the role.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the appointment as “historic,” noting that it comes at a time when the role of the intelligence services is more crucial than ever.
MI6 is responsible for collecting intelligence abroad to help safeguard the UK’s national security. Its key objectives include preventing terrorism, countering threats from hostile states, and strengthening cyber-security.
The agency’s chief traditionally known as “C” is the only member of the organization whose identity is made public.
Metreweli, currently serves as Director General “Q”, leading the vital technology and innovation division. Her role focuses on protecting the identities of secret agents and developing advanced methods to stay ahead of adversaries, including countering biometric surveillance from nations like China.
She highlighted the important role MI6 plays together with MI5 and GCHQ in safeguarding the UK and supporting its global interests.
She added that she is committed to carrying that mission forward, working closely with MI6’s dedicated officers and agents, as well as trusted international allies.
The anthropology graduate from the University of Cambridge, has held senior leadership roles within MI5 the UK’s domestic intelligence agency and has spent much of her career focused on operations across the Middle East and Europe.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who will oversee the new MI6 chief, described her as the “ideal” choice to help the UK address challenges posed by global instability and emerging security threats.
He also expressed gratitude to Sir Richard Moore for his dedicated leadership, saying, “I have worked closely with him over the past year and appreciate his significant contributions to strengthening our national security and safeguarding the British public.”
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