2025-06-15T21:30:00Z

In a groundbreaking announcement by Labour leader Keir Starmer, the United Kingdom's foreign intelligence service, MI6, is set to be led by a woman for the very first time. Blaise Metreweli, a dedicated intelligence officer with a career spanning over two decades, will take over the reins from Sir Richard Moore in the autumn, marking a historic moment as she becomes the 18th chief of MI6.

At 47 years old, Metreweli currently holds the position of director general of MI6’s Q section, where she oversees technology and innovation. Her extensive experience includes various director-level roles within MI6, as well as significant service in MI5, the UK’s domestic security and counter-intelligence agency. Her academic background includes a degree in social anthropology from the prestigious Cambridge University, and she has spent considerable time in operational roles across the Middle East and Europe, which adds a valuable perspective to her new position.

Starmer emphasized the importance of this historic appointment, stating, “The historic appointment of Blaise Metreweli comes at a time when the work of our intelligence services has never been more vital. The United Kingdom is facing threats on an unprecedented scale, be it aggressors who send their spy ships to our waters or hackers whose sophisticated cyber-plots seek to disrupt our public services.” This statement highlights the critical role that intelligence services play in ensuring national security in an ever-evolving global landscape.

In her own words, Metreweli expressed her pride and honor at being selected to lead MI6, stating, “I am proud and honoured to be asked to lead my service. MI6 plays a vital role – with MI5 and GCHQ – in keeping the British people safe and promoting UK interests overseas. I look forward to continuing that work alongside the brave officers and agents of MI6 and our many international partners.” This commitment to collaboration resonates with the agency’s objectives and the challenges it faces.

Notably, Metreweli’s appointment is significant not only for MI6 but also in contrast to its sister agencies. While MI5 has previously had female leaders like Stella Rimington and Eliza Manningham-Buller, and GCHQ is currently led by Anne Keast-Butler, MI6 has remained male-dominated since its establishment in 1909. This change signals a progressive shift within the intelligence community.

Interestingly, Metreweli’s appointment comes at a time when the portrayal of female leaders in popular culture is gaining traction, exemplified by the iconic role of M, James Bond’s superior, famously depicted by Judi Dench over a remarkable 17-year span in the film series.

The head of MI6, referred to as 'C' internally, is the only officer within the agency who is publically named and recognized. This role has evolved in recent years, with the head taking on a more visible profile, often engaging in public speaking and social media interactions.

Sir Richard Moore's tenure was approaching its conclusion, having served nearly five years since his appointment in September 2020. It is commonly agreed that the maximum term for British spy chiefs is five years, after which they typically transition into consultancy roles within the private sector.

Sir Richard Moore was a notable figure in his own right, having held a relatively high-profile position, including his time as ambassador to Turkey, where he built a strong rapport with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. During his leadership, MI6 played a crucial role in international crises, notably issuing warnings regarding Vladimir Putin's intentions to invade Ukraine leading up to the full-scale invasion in February 2022.

In her current role as the head of MI6’s technology division, known colloquially as the Q branch—an homage to the iconic James Bond character who provides 007 with gadgets—Metreweli’s leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the agency’s operations. While there have been at least two women who have previously held positions akin to technology chief in MI6, the character of Q in the over 60 years of the Bond films has never been portrayed by a woman.