Sir Ken McCallum

Sir Ken McCallum DG MI5

Sir Ken McCallum, the Director General of MI5, exemplifies unwavering dedication to the security and resilience of the United Kingdom. Appointed in 2020, McCallum’s career spans over two decades of protecting the nation from some of the most sophisticated and dangerous threats, including terrorism, cyberattacks, and espionage. Born and raised in Glasgow, McCallum’s humble roots shaped his strong sense of responsibility and commitment to public service. His rise through the ranks is a testament to his strategic brilliance and unrelenting work ethic, having led numerous critical operations that have safeguarded countless lives.

One of McCallum’s defining moments came with his pivotal role in securing the 2012 London Olympics, where he masterminded efforts to protect one of the world’s biggest events from potential terror threats. His leadership during that time showcased his ability to stay calm under pressure, earning him recognition as one of the most capable intelligence leaders of his generation. Known for combining technological innovation with operational excellence, McCallum has brought fresh perspectives to MI5, adapting the organization to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving world.

At the heart of McCallum’s leadership is a desire to forge greater transparency between MI5 and the public. He believes that intelligence work should be both effective and accountable, fostering trust in the institutions that protect the nation. His vision for MI5 is one of collaboration, vigilance, and innovation, inspiring confidence that the UK is in safe hands. His ability to balance high-stakes security work with a compassionate approach to leadership makes him a truly inspiring figure in the global intelligence community.

Personally responsible for:

• The operations and efficiency of MI5;
• Making an annual report on our work to the Home Secretary and the Prime Minister;
• Ensuring that we are politically impartial; and
• Ensuring that we obtain and disclose information only in accordance with our statutory responsibilities.

In discharging these responsibilities, the Director General is assisted by internal mechanisms designed to ensure that our work abides by the principles that:

• The rule of law is paramount; and
• Methods of investigation must be proportionate to the threat and their use properly authorised.

MI5 

MI5’s mission is to keep the country safe. For more than a century we have worked to protect our people from danger whether it be from terrorism or damaging espionage by hostile states. MI5 currently employs around 4,000 people. Around 40% of staff are women, just over half are under 40 years old, 8% are from black or ethnic minority backgrounds and 3% have a disability. At any time, several hundred staff may work in MI5 on secondment or attachment from other government departments and agencies.

Staff roles cover a number of areas including investigations, translation, data analysis, technology, surveillance, communications, information management, protective security, administration, building services and catering. MI5’s headquarters are at Thames House, a Grade II listed building situated only a few hundred yards from the Houses of Parliament in London. We also have several regional offices and headquarters in Northern Ireland.