4/11/2023
New Director GCHQ announced - GCHQ.GOV.UK
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New Director GCHQ announced
Anne Keast-Butler to succeed Sir Jeremy Fleming as the 17th Director of GCHQ
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly today announced that Anne Keast-Butler has
been appointed to succeed Sir Jeremy Fleming as Director GCHQ, with the
agreement of the Prime Minister.
Anne Keast-Butler is currently serving as Deputy Director General MI5 and will be
the first woman to hold the top position at GCHQ. She will succeed Sir Jeremy
Fleming, who in January announced his decision to step down after six years in the
role. She will take up her post in May. The appointment was made following a crossgovernment recruitment process chaired by Cabinet Secretary, Simon Case.
Announcing the appointment, the Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said:
“Anne Keast-Butler has an impressive track record at the heart of the UK’s national
security network, helping to counter threats posed by terrorists, cyber-criminals
and malign foreign powers.
“She is the ideal candidate to lead GCHQ, and Anne will use her vast experience to
help keep the British public safe.”
National Security Adviser, Sir Tim Barrow said:
“I am glad to welcome Anne Keast-Butler’s appointment to Director GCHQ. Anne
was the exceptional candidate in a talented field. She brings a wealth of
experience from across the national security community, has the vision to take
GCHQ into the future and will ensure that it continues its vital work to protect the
UK.
"I am grateful to Jeremy for his service as Director GCHQ and over a distinguished
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