MI6 Chief: Blaise Metreweli First Woman to Lead
Blaise Metreweli makes history as the first woman to lead MI6, succeeding Sir Richard Moore. This landmark appointment places her at the forefront of the UK’s foreign intelligence service,a first in its 116-year history. Metreweli, previously Director General “Q,” brings extensive experience in technology, innovation, and global security threats. Her selection reflects the critical need for MI6 to adapt and maintain its intelligence edge, especially facing challenges from Russia, China, and others. Her focus on the evolving global landscape positions her to navigate complex security issues.News Directory 3 provides a complete overview of this historic event. Discover what’s next for MI6 under her leadership.
Blaise Metreweli to Head MI6, Making History
Updated June 16, 2025
Blaise Metreweli will take the helm of MI6, the United Kingdom’s foreign intelligence service, marking the first time a woman has held the top role in the agency’s 116-year history. She is set to succeed Sir Richard Moore later this year.
Metreweli, who joined the Secret Intelligence Service in 1999, currently serves as Director General “Q,” overseeing technology and innovation. Her division focuses on safeguarding agent identities and developing methods to counter threats like China’s biometric surveillance.She expressed feeling “proud and honored” to be appointed as the 18th chief.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hailed the appointment as “historic,” emphasizing the critical importance of the intelligence services’ work. MI6 is tasked with gathering intelligence overseas to protect UK security,focusing on counter-terrorism,disrupting hostile state activities,and strengthening cyber-security.The chief, known as “C,” is the only publicly identified member of the service.
Metreweli, 47, a Cambridge anthropology graduate, previously held director-level positions at MI5, the domestic security agency, and has extensive experience in the Middle East and Europe. In 2024, she was awarded the Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG) for her contributions to British foreign policy.
The incoming chief faces significant challenges, including those posed by Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, which are increasingly cooperating to undermine Western interests. Technical challenges also loom large, as MI6 must adapt to the digital age, where much intelligence is gathered online and from space, to maintain its intelligence edge.
Outgoing chief Sir Richard Moore, who will step down this autumn after five years, voiced his support for Metreweli’s appointment. “Blaise is a highly accomplished intelligence officer and leader, and one of our foremost thinkers on technology,” he said, adding he was “absolutely delighted” with the “historic appointment.”
Foreign Secretary David Lammy described Metreweli as the “ideal” candidate to address ”global instability and emerging security threats.” He also thanked Sir Richard for his service.
“MI6 plays a vital role – with MI5 and GCHQ – in keeping the British people safe and promoting UK interests overseas,” Metreweli said. “I look forward to continuing that work alongside the brave officers and agents of MI6 and our many international partners.”
What’s next
Metreweli will assume her new role later this year, focusing on adapting MI6 to meet evolving global threats and leveraging technology and