A woman has been appointed as the first head of the British foreign intelligence agency, MI6, in its history.
The BBC reported that Blaze Metherell, 47, has been appointed as the next head of MI6. This marks the first time a woman has been appointed to lead MI6 in its 116-year history.
Metherell will assume her role as the 18th head of MI6 this fall, succeeding the current head, Richard Moore, who is stepping down after five years. After studying social anthropology at the University of Cambridge, Metherell joined MI6 in 1999 and has carried out operations in the Middle East and Europe.
She has held director-level positions in both MI6 and MI5, and she is currently the Director General responsible for technology and innovation within MI6. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer noted during the announcement of Metherell's appointment, "Blaze Metherell's historic appointment comes at a time when our intelligence services are more important than ever. The United Kingdom faces unprecedented threats."
Metherell said, "I am proud and honored to lead the organization I am a part of," adding, "MI6 plays a crucial role in keeping the British public safe and promoting Britain’s interests abroad alongside MI5 and GCHQ."
The head of MI6 is the only person whose identity is officially disclosed. Internally, they are referred to as 'C,' which signifies the head.