MI6 Appoints First Female Chief in 116-Year History

In a historic move, the United Kingdom’s Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) has appointed Blaise Metreweli as its first female chief in its 116-year history. Metreweli, 47, will succeed Sir Richard Moore in the autumn of 2025. Currently serving as MI6’s Director-General for Technology and Innovation, known internally as “Q,” she has been instrumental in advancing the agency’s technological capabilities and fostering innovation within its operations.

A Cambridge-educated social anthropologist fluent in Arabic, Metreweli joined MI6 in 1999 and has held various senior roles within both MI6 and MI5, the UK’s domestic security service. Her extensive experience includes overseeing counter-proliferation efforts and managing threats from nations such as Russia, China, and Iran. Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed her appointment as “historic,” emphasizing the significance of her leadership amid growing global security challenges.

Metreweli’s appointment reflects MI6’s ongoing efforts to enhance diversity and inclusion within its ranks. Outgoing chief Sir Richard Moore had previously advocated for gender equality in leadership positions, stating his intention to be the last MI6 chief selected from an all-male shortlist. Her selection is seen as a significant step toward achieving greater gender representation in UK intelligence leadership.

As the new head of MI6, Metreweli will face complex security challenges, including cyber threats, espionage, and geopolitical tensions. Her leadership is anticipated to steer MI6 through these evolving threats, ensuring the agency’s continued effectiveness in safeguarding national and international security.