The Foreign Secretary, with the agreement of the Prime Minister,
has approved the appointment of Richard Moore CMG as the new
Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6). Richard will
succeed Sir Alex Younger, who will leave the Service in the
autumn.
Richard is currently Political Director in the Foreign and
Commonwealth Office, and a former HM Ambassador to Turkey.
Richard previously held director roles in the Secret Intelligence
Service and has been Deputy National Security Adviser in the
Cabinet Office.
The Foreign Secretary, , said:
“I am delighted to appoint Richard as the next Chief of the
Secret Intelligence Service. He returns to SIS with tremendous
experience and will oversee the work of a group of men and women
whose tireless efforts are rarely seen in public, but which are
critical for the security and prosperity of the UK.
“I pay tribute to Sir Alex Younger for everything he has done
during his time leading the Secret Intelligence Service. He has
carefully and effectively guided the service during a time of
increased and more diverse threats.”
The Cabinet Secretary, , said:
“Richard’s experience and leadership in the Intelligence field
will prove vital in pursuing national interests overseas and
protecting the UK from emerging foreign threats. I’m confident
Richard will be an excellent Chief, who will embody the values of
the Service and act as a fine role model to SIS staff.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Alex Younger
for his excellent leadership of the Service over the last six
years and his contribution to the protection of UK citizens from
outside threats during that time.”
Richard Moore said:
“I am pleased and honoured to be asked to return to lead my
Service. SIS plays a vital role - with MI5 and GCHQ - in keeping
the British people safe and promoting UK interests overseas. I
look forward to continuing that work alongside the brave and
dedicated team at SIS.”
Outgoing Chief, Sir Alex Younger, said:
“I am delighted by this appointment. Richard is a highly
accomplished intelligence officer and we look forward to
welcoming him back to the Service.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
· Richard Moore is currently the Director General for Political
Affairs (Political Director) at the Foreign & Commonwealth
Office.
· Previously Richard served as British Ambassador to Turkey and
has been Deputy National Security Adviser in the Cabinet Office.
· Prior to his time at the FCO, Richard joined SIS in 1987 where
he undertook a range of roles across the Service both in the UK
and overseas.
· Richard was born in Libya and is married to Maggie, with two
children. Outside of work, Richard’s interests include playing
golf and watching cricket and rugby. He speaks fluent Turkish.
