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MI6 tries to quash spy stereotypes to attract mothers and minorities

Published on: 29 May 2018

MI6 has advertised on TV for the first time in a bid to appeal to more diverse candidates.

The spy agency wants to dispel the glamorous, male-dominated image largely created by the James Bond movies to attract a workforce that reflects Britain’s diversity.

Premiering during Channel 4’s evening news on Thursday (May 24th), the advert looks to dispel some misconceptions surrounding the Secret Intelligence Service (SIS) and provide viewers with an understanding of the skills required to be an intelligence officer.

The SIS says it wants to attract three different types of candidates.

Firstly, ‘targeters’, who can identify individuals who may have access to secret information and who might be willing to work as service agents.

Secondly, case officers, who can cultivate, build and manage relationships with agents.

And lastly, ‘R officers’, who work with customers to ensure SIS intelligence is relevant and validated.

MI6 wants to recruit an extra 800 people by 2021, but figures from 2016 show that the agency has a serious gender imbalance across its 2,500-strong workforce, with women making up 38 per cent of non-senior staff and occupying just a quarter of senior posts.

Just under seven per cent of non-senior staff are from a black, Asian or minority ethnic background and these groups are not represented at all in the senior ranks.

SIS chief Alex Younger believes that potential candidates often rule themselves out because they don’t fit the usual spy stereotypes.

“My message remains simple: there is no 'standard' Ml6 officer - if you have what it takes, then apply to join us. Our work is exciting, intellectually challenging and it matters,” he commented.

“Regardless of background, if you have the skills we need and share our values, I want you to consider a career in intelligence, in a service that reflects today's UK society.

“Ml6 needs the best people that this country has to offer and there really is a place for you."