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For the first time in history, the United Kingdom (UK) spy agency MI6 appoints its first ever female chief in 116-year history.
Blaise Metreweli will become the 18th chief of the organisation and will replace Sir Richard Moore later this year as head of the intelligence service of the United Kingdom (UK).
Metreweli, 47, joined the Secret Intelligence Service in 1999 and is currently Director General “Q”, overseeing MI6’s technology and innovation division. She called the appointment an honour and privilege.
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described her appointment as “historic,” adding that it comes at a time when intelligence services are more crucial than ever for national security.
MI6, officially the Secret Intelligence Service, works overseas to keep the UK safe. It mainly tackles terrorism, hostile states’ actions, and strengthens Britain’s cyber-security and global intelligence efforts.
Only the chief of MI6, known as “C”, is publicly named. The title dates back to the first chief, Captain Mansfield Cumming, who signed all documents using the letter “C”.
Metreweli studied anthropology at the University of Cambridge and has held senior roles in both MI6 and MI5, working mostly in Europe and the Middle East over her long career.
In 2024, she was awarded the Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG) for her contributions to British foreign policy, earning respect in diplomatic and intelligence circles.
As Director “Q”, Metreweli led projects to protect secret agent identities and helped MI6 counter threats from advanced surveillance technologies, including China’s expanding biometric monitoring systems.
According to her interview with The Telegraph in December 2001, under the alias “Director K”, she warned that modern security threats are diverse and growing, including risks to governments, economies, people, secrets, and sensitive UK technologies.
Metreweli pointed out that Russia’s state activities remain a significant danger. She also highlighted that China presents both opportunities and serious challenges in shaping the global power structure.
MI6’s challenges have become more complex, with threats from Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. These countries are reportedly collaborating more to destabilize the West.
