Blaise Metreweli has been appointed as the new head of the UK’s Secret Intelligence Service (SIS), commonly known as MI6, becoming the first woman to lead the agency in its 116-year history.
Metreweli, currently SIS’s head of technology, will take over in October when Sir Richard Moore’s five-year term ends having been selected from a final shortlist of two candidates.
About the Secret Intelligence Service (SIS)
SIS, also referred to as MI6, is the UK’s foreign intelligence agency. It recruits spies abroad to safeguard Britain’s national security and economic interests. The SIS operates under the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and provides the UK government with a global covert capability.
Who is Blaise Metreweli?
Metreweli, 47, studied anthropology at Cambridge University. Her surname reflects her Georgian heritage. She originally applied for a diplomatic role but was recruited into SIS. Known as an excellent Arabic speaker, she has served in various operational roles across the Middle East and Europe, including in war zones.
Metreweli began her career in counter-intelligence, working on nuclear technology and building relationships with agents risking their lives to share secrets. She also spent time at MI5, heading directorate ‘K’, which focuses on threats from hostile states such as Russia, China, and Iran.
She had been due for an overseas posting this summer but will now remain in the UK to take on the role of SIS Chief, traditionally known as “C.” Metreweli was awarded a CMG last year for her contributions to British foreign policy. Outside her intelligence work, public records show she co-owns a property business managing a single property in Pimlico, near MI6 headquarters.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described Metreweli’s appointment as “historic,” noting it comes at a time when the UK faces security threats on an “unprecedented scale.” Metreweli said she was “proud and honoured” to lead MI6 and looks forward to working “alongside the brave officers and agents of MI6 and our many international partners.”
Global Security Challenges
Metreweli takes charge at a time of major global threats. Outgoing chief Sir Richard Moore recently described the world as being in the most dangerous state he has seen in nearly 40 years, citing the resurgence of ISIS, Russia’s war in Ukraine, and China’s increasing assertiveness.
One of Metreweli’s key tasks will be managing MI6’s evolving relationship with the CIA, its closest ally, at a time of shifting US security priorities. Sir Richard Moore praised her as “a highly accomplished intelligence officer and leader, and one of our foremost thinkers on technology.”
