MI6 Appoints First-Ever Female Chief in Its 116-Year History

In a historic ruling underlining the increasing significance of cyber intelligence in contemporary espionage, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared Blaise Metreweli as the future head of the Secret Intelligence Service, otherwise referred to as MI6.

Metreweli, 47, is currently the agency's Director of Technology and Innovation. She will be the first woman to head MI6 in its 116-year history, replacing Richard Moore, who is finishing his five-year term.

With a highly respected intelligence career, Metreweli has overseen the development of cutting-edge technologies for deployment with British agents. Her efforts have granted her the internal codename "Q"—a nod to the legendary gadgeteer from the James Bond franchise.

When she formally takes up her new role, Metreweli will take on the historic title of "C," or the Chief of MI6. The tradition runs back to the first head of the agency, Captain Sir Mansfield Cumming, who signed letters with only the letter "C."

"I am proud and honoured to be asked to lead my Service," Metreweli issued in an abbreviated public statement.

Prime Minister Starmer welcomed her appointment as a "historic appointment" and highlighted MI6's crucial role in an ever more uncertain world.

"The United Kingdom is threatened on a scale unparalleled in history, whether aggressors who deploy spy vessels in our waters or hackers who seek to destroy our public infrastructure," Starmer said.

Her appointment reflects the intelligence community’s strategic shift toward confronting digital threats and cyber intrusions. Experts say Metreweli’s strong technological expertise makes her well-suited to guide MI6 through the complexities of contemporary global security challenges.

Her elevation also marks another step in the agency’s broader transformation—embracing diversity and modernity in what has traditionally been a secretive institution.