Secret Intelligence Service

The Secret Intelligence Service (SIS), commonly known as MI6, is a Crown Service responsible for obtaining secret information and conducting operations in support of the UK's foreign policy objectives, and to counter threats to UK interests worldwide. This involves a variety of activities, including conducting operations to obtain intelligence and working to disrupt threats to UK citizens or assets. SIS offers long-term careers with the possibility of promotion to high levels of responsibility.

Last updated - 15th January 2009

As a separate Crown Service SIS is not formally part of the Home Civil Service. We have separate terms and conditions and a separate recruitment structure handled directly by SIS. Whilst not part of the Civil Service Fast Stream they do recruit high calibre graduates with exceptional interpersonal skills and intellectual capabilities, who are interested in working in an international environment, with periods spent living overseas. Curiosity about political affairs is important, as is the resourcefulness, drive and creativity to produce solutions to difficult problems under testing circumstances. The role is primarily to mount and run intelligence operations to promote and protect British interests and security overseas. SIS does not recruit specialist intelligence analysts - this work takes place under the auspices of the Joint Intelligence Committee.

Successful candidates are likely to have a strong academic record coupled with evidence of interest in foreign people and cultures, positions of influence in extra-curricular activities and a commitment to public service. Applications are welcome from candidates with public and private sector backgrounds, those considering a career change and university students. Undergraduates should not apply until their final year.

Special requirements
You must be a British Citizen with at least one parent who is a British national. You must have lived in the UK for the majority (but not necessarily all) of the last 10 years. You will have to pass an extensive security clearance process prior to joining and if successful you must be willing to learn new languages as required.

Contact us
If you would like to apply for SIS positions please visit their website at www.sis.gov.uk. Enquiries about opportunities for other positions can also be made from this website or you can write to The Secret Intelligence Service, PO Box 1300, London SE1 1BD.

Important
Because of the nature of the work, potential candidates should not divulge to others their application to SIS. Failure to observe the confidentiality of an application may affect eligibility for employment.