Ken McCallum has been appointed as successor to Sir Andrew Parker
as the head of MI5, Home Secretary announced today.
Currently serving as Deputy Director General, Mr McCallum has
worked for the Security Service for almost 25 years.
His time included overseeing all counter-terror investigations in
the run-up to, and during, the 2012 London Olympics.
There will be a handover period before Mr McCallum takes over
from Sir Andrew when he retires at the end of April.
Home Secretary said:
Since becoming Home Secretary, I have worked closely with Ken
and I’m delighted to appoint him as the new Director General.
We are facing unprecedented national security threats and I’m
confident that his experience and vision will allow the UK to
meet those challenges head on.
I also would like to pay tribute to Sir Andrew Parker, who has
led the service through a very challenging period which saw the
threat to the UK evolve rapidly. He has served his country with
dedication and commitment and I thank him for his efforts.
Ken McCallum said:
MI5’s purpose is hugely motivating. Our people – with our
partners – strive to keep the country safe, and they always
want to go the extra mile.
Having devoted my working life to that team effort, it is a
huge privilege now to be asked to lead it as Director General.
The Cabinet Secretary, , said:
Ken McCallum’s expertise and leadership will be crucial to
ensuring that the Security Service remains agile and creative
in the face of new and emerging threats to our security. I know
that he will be a fantastic Director General and I look forward
to working with him.
Ken will work closely with Sir Andrew Parker ahead of his
retirement. I would like to thank Sir Andrew for his many years
of distinguished leadership of the women and men of the
Service, and his dedication to keeping our citizens safe and
our country secure.
Mr McCallum will take up his new post at the end of April.
A detailed biography of Ken McCallum can be found on
the MI5 website.
