Bliss Metregueli: First Woman to Lead Britain’s MI6 in 116 Years

For the first time in its 116-year history, the British foreign intelligence service will have a female leader. UK Prime Minister Kir Starmer announced on Sunday, June 15, 2025, that Bliss Metregueli will take the helm. ‘It is an honor for me to lead our service. MI6, along with MI5 and GCHQ, plays a critical role in securing British citizens and promoting national interests abroad. I look forward to continuing this work with the brave officers and agents of MI6 and our international partners,’ said Metregueli. The 47-year-old Cambridge University graduate has been part of the secret services since 1999 and will succeed Richard Moore as the 18th chief of MI6. She previously served as Director of Technology and Innovation within the agency. Primarily working in Europe and the Middle East, she has held leadership roles in both MI6 and MI5. The heads of MI6, commonly known as ‘C,’ are the only members whose names are publicly disclosed. Prime Minister Starmer described her appointment as ‘historic’ and emphasized its importance during a time when the work of intelligence services is more crucial than ever. Foreign Secretary David Lamy praised Metregueli as the ideal candidate to lead MI6 into the future, highlighting her ability to protect Britain amid global instability and emerging security threats.