Meet Blaise Metreweli, the primary girl chief of UK spy company MI6
Metreweli, presently Director Normal for Know-how and Innovation at MI6, will succeed Sir Richard Moore this autumn to turn out to be the 18th Chief within the company’s historical past. Generally often called “C,” the Chief is the one publicly named officer in MI6 and is accountable to the International Secretary for overseeing all operational actions.
Metreweli’s appointment comes at a time of rising international instability, from elevated cyber threats to escalating geopolitical tensions. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated the intelligence providers have by no means been extra important.
“The UK is going through threats on an unprecedented scale—from spy ships in our waters to cyberattacks aimed toward public providers,” stated Starmer. “Blaise will present the management wanted to defend our nation and preserve our folks protected—the inspiration of my Plan for Change.”
International Secretary David Lammy, who made the appointment, referred to as Metreweli the perfect candidate to steer MI6 via rising safety challenges the place “know-how is energy.”
“Blaise brings a wealth of expertise from throughout the nationwide safety group,” Lammy stated. “At a time when our adversaries are working ever extra carefully collectively, her management will probably be essential in preserving Britain safe.”
Outgoing MI6 Chief Sir Richard Moore praised her as “one in all our foremost thinkers on know-how,” and stated her appointment indicators a brand new period for the company.
“I’m completely delighted by this historic appointment. Blaise is a extremely completed intelligence officer and chief. I’m excited to see her lead the Service into the long run.”
Cupboard Secretary Christopher Wormald additionally welcomed the announcement, saying Metreweli would embody the values of MI6 and function a task mannequin to its officers.
Metreweli herself expressed pleasure in taking over the highest function.
“It’s an honour to guide my Service. MI6, alongside MI5 and GCHQ, performs an important function in preserving the British folks protected and advancing the UK’s pursuits abroad. I sit up for persevering with this necessary mission with our courageous officers, brokers, and worldwide companions.”
The UK authorities has additionally introduced a further £600 million in funding for the intelligence group to fulfill future challenges.
All about Blaise Metreweli
A profession intelligence officer, Metreweli joined MI6 in 1999 and has served extensively in operational roles throughout the Center East and Europe. She has additionally held a senior function within the home safety company MI5. She studied Anthropology at Pembroke School, Cambridge.
- Blaise Metreweli is Director Normal Know-how and Innovation in MI6. She has beforehand held a Director-level roles in MI5.
- She is a profession intelligence officer, having joined the Service as a case officer in 1999.
- She has undertaken a spread of roles throughout the Service. She has spent most of her profession in operational roles within the Center East and Europe.
- She studied Anthropology at Pembroke School, Cambridge.
