For the first time in its history, the British intelligence agency MI6 will be led by a woman. Blaise Metreveli, who has Georgian roots, is set to officially take over as chief in October, becoming the 18th head of the organization. She will succeed current MI6 chief Richard Moore.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the appointment as historic, emphasizing that Metreveli assumes leadership at a time of escalating global threats to national security.

Metreveli, who joined MI6 in 1999, currently serves as Director General “Q” — the agency’s top official for technology and innovation. In that role, she has overseen efforts to safeguard the identities of secret agents and develop advanced tools to counter adversaries.

“I look forward to continuing that work alongside the brave officers and agents of MI6 and our many international partners,” Metreveli said in a statement.