Intelligence agency GCHQ gets its first ever female chief: Anne Kist-Butler is the MI5 ghost who oversaw the security service’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
A senior MI5 operative who led the Security Service’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine has been announced as the new head of GCHQ.
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly confirmed today that Anne Kest Butler will replace Sir Jeremy Fleming as Director of Government Communications Headquarters next month.
Ms Keast-Butler is currently Deputy Director General of MI5 and was responsible for the “preparation and response to Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine”.
She was previously seconded to the Intelligence Service in Cheltenham as Head of Counter Terrorism and Serious Organized Crime.
While there, she played a role in launching the National Cybersecurity Program.
GCHQ said that during her 30-year career, she has held “key operational roles” in intelligence.
Ms Keast-Butler is currently Deputy Director General of MI5 and was responsible for the “preparation and response to Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine”.
She will replace Sir Jeremy Fleming as Director of Government Communications Headquarters next month
Mr Cleverly said: ‘Anne Kist-Butler has a proven track record at the heart of the UK’s national security network, helping to counter threats posed by terrorists, cybercriminals and malign foreign powers.
“She is the perfect candidate to lead the GCHQ, and Anne will use her vast experience to help keep the British public safe.”
Dame Keast-Butler added: ‘GCHQ’s mission to keep the UK safe is as inspiring today as it was when it was founded over 100 years ago, working at the heart of the UK and our allies’ response to some of its most challenging challenges. issues of our time.
Just last year, GCHQ contributed intelligence vital to shaping the West’s response to Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine; Help disrupt terrorist plots. It has worked tirelessly to tackle the persistent threat of ransomware, the impact of which is costing the UK dearly.
I had the honor of working at GCHQ a few years ago, so I know I’ve once again joined a world-class team of people from diverse backgrounds with a wide range of skills, who share a singular focus on making our country safer, more secure, and more prosperous. I am passionate about continuing to make sure that GCHQ is an organization where everyone can bring their best.
