Richard Moore steps down as MI6 chief: three women among candidates to replace him

11 May 2025 , 08:52

901     0

Richard Moore steps down as MI6 chief: three women among candidates to replace him

MI6 chief Richard Moore to step down this fall — Britain may appoint first female spy chief

Richard Moore, the head of Britain’s Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) who played a key role in the UK’s support for Ukraine during the war, is set to step down from his position this autumn, The Sunday Times reports.

For the first time in MI6 history, the position could be filled by a woman. The leading candidate is Barbara Woodward, the former British ambassador to China. Two other contenders are also women — both senior MI6 officers whose identities remain confidential.

The newspaper refers to the frontrunner as “Beijing Barbara,” noting that her potential appointment has sparked debate within the intelligence community. Critics argue that Woodward did not speak out strongly enough against Chinese actions during her time as ambassador between 2015 and 2020.

However, her supporters point out that she is the highest-ranking woman in the UK diplomatic service, and that her firsthand experience in Beijing makes her a strong candidate for the role.

David Wilson

Politics Editor