Andrew Parker will take up his new role on Monday, April 22. Cabinet Secretary, Sir Jeremy Heywood, said:
"He brings his deep knowledge and experience of all aspects of the Service and its operations to this role and will be a great leader of the Service, working collaboratively with its partners. I look forward to working with him in his new role.
"I would also like to pay tribute to the outstanding way in which Jonathan Evans has led the Service since 2007 and I wish him all the very best for the future."
50-year-old Andrew Parker got a degree in Natural Sciences from Cambridge. He is married with two children and enjoys the outdoor life, being a keen ornithologist and wildlife photographer.
The new boss of MI5, Andrew Parker Credit: Home Office/MI5
Under his [Andrew Parker's] leadership the Service will continue to stay ahead of global and domestic threats to our national security and further develop its reputation as one of the world's most effective security agencies.
I also pay tribute to the work of Sir Jonathan Evans, who has led the Service through challenging times of change and unrest, including in the aftermath of the 7/7 London bombings. His tireless work also helped ensure the delivery of a safe and successful Olympic and Paralympic Games last year.
Andrew Parker has worked for the Security Service MI5 for more than 30 years and has been in his current role since 2007. He will take over from current MI5 chief Sir Jonathan Evans in April.
Andrew Parker, new MI5 Director General Credit: Home Office/MI5
