Intelligence Officers

Becoming an Intelligence Officer at MI6. To most, that kind of career step probably feels more like a leap. And that’s understandable – it is a one-of-a-kind role.

But the real bit of intel many don’t know is that this role is all about people and everyday skills, using ones like curiosity, empathy, and communication to keep people safe. If that sounds like you, keep reading to find out more about us.\\nWe’re MI6, also known as the Secret Intelligence Service (SIS). Our mission is to protect the security and economic wellbeing of the UK from overseas threats such as regional instability, terrorism, and cyber-attacks.

Working across the globe and in close partnership with MI5 and GCHQ, we help the Government to counter these threats through the provision of secret intelligence. A role in MI6 will see you providing vital support to this work, within a supportive and encouraging environment that puts the emphasis on teamwork.\\nAt the heart of this mission are our Intelligence Officers (IOs) who work around the globe to gather, deliver and use secret intelligence to protect the UK and its interests overseas. It’s a complex role, which covers four main areas:\\nThere are four key areas for IOs:\\n – Targeters, who turn data into real-life intelligence operations\\n – Case Officers, who manage relationships with agents who provide intelligence\\n – Reporting Officers, who analyse and validate intelligence before briefing government officials\\n – Operational Managers, who plan and manage the collection of intelligence\\nSo, what might a typical day look like for you as an IO?

\\nOne day, you might meet an agent in a café; the next, gathering intelligence from our London offices. For the most part, your work will look much like any other office role – and you’ll usually be contactable throughout the day too, in case your family and friends need you.\\nWe won’t expect you to know everything when you join us. That’s why we have our three-year Intelligence Officer Training Pathway, which combines classroom training with on-the-job experience.

Over time, you’ll gain the confidence to manage your own workload and explore different disciplines, finding the area that best matches your interests. And every few years, you’ll rotate into another area to broaden your experience even further. Throughout your journey, you’ll have access to a mentor, supportive colleagues, and our diversity network groups.\\nIn return for your work with us, you’ll receive a competitive salary, the opportunity to work overseas, 25 days’ annual leave, shared parental and adoption leave, and financial support for learning and development.