Andrew Parker has been appointed the new Director General of MI5 to take over from the outgoing head, Sir Jonathan Evans, next month.
The current Deputy Director has worked for the Security Service for over 30 years and brings a wide range of experience across national security and intelligence work.
Parker, 50, has previously worked on Middle East terrorism, counter espionage, Northern Ireland terrorism, serious and organised crime and strategic planning during his time with MI5.
He has been Deputy Director since 2007 and will take up his new post of Director General on April 22.
Speaking about his appointment, Parker said: “It is a great honour to be appointed Director General of MI5. I am extremely proud of the extraordinary work that the men and women of MI5 do to keep the country safe in challenging circumstances. I look forward to leading the Service through its next chapter.”
Home Secretary Theresa May said Parker brings a “wealth of experience and knowledge” to the new role and predicts a bright future under his control.
“Under his leadership the Service will continue to stay ahead of global and domestic threats to our national security and further develop its reputation as one of the world’s most effective security agencies,” she added.
