Explore roles at MI6 and discover a career full of opportunity

At MI6, our mission is to protect the UK from overseas threats. We work secretly around the world, so it’s fair to say our business needs are quite unique. It’s why we rely on our Business Support Officers (BSOs) to assist our operational and corporate teams with all kinds of requirements. As a BSO, you’ll help to keep MI6 organised, connected and capable of keeping the UK safe.

BSOs are from all kinds of backgrounds. You don’t need any specific qualifications, so it’s a great option for those looking to launch their career or change direction. Don’t just take our word for it – we spoke to current BSOs to get some insights into why they took on the role.

“I was bored in my old role. I wanted to do something different – something that could lead to a bigger career.”

Like many of our BSOs, you might’ve had a ‘lightbulb’ moment where you’ve realised you want to do something meaningful. As a BSO, you’ll apply your skills and learn new ones. Spend time in teams across the organisation. Share your own ideas and perspectives. And, ultimately, develop a rewarding career – all while making vital contributions to our mission.

Upon joining, you’ll be placed into your first two roles. You’ll stay in each role for around two years, giving you unique exposure to the way we work. You might be supporting an operational team involved in intelligence gathering or providing valuable assistance to a corporate team. From writing reports and handling data to co-ordinating diaries, organising flights and identifying hotels for discreet overseas meetings, it’s a role with real variety (and real impact).

And, after your two postings are complete, you’ll have the freedom to take your career in the direction you want, whether that’s applying for a promotion, experiencing other roles, or even going overseas.

“It’s much more friendly and easy-going than I expected. It doesn’t feel elite at all.”

It’s a common misconception that you need a certain level of education or experience to work here. That’s not the case. When it comes to BSOs, it’s likely you already have a lot of the skills required – organisation, teamwork, and communication, to name a few. We’ll teach you all you need to know, with dedicated training and plenty of development opportunities on offer. There are also great benefits, including flexible working to support your work-life balance.

Plus, in our inclusive, open culture, you’ll find yourself working with people from all kinds of backgrounds. We’re committed to building a workforce that reflects the society we serve. Alongside friendly colleagues, you’ll discover plenty of sports, social and interest groups as well as networks that support all kinds of communities, from ethnic minority and LGBTQ+ to disability and neurodivergence and much more. We want to ensure everyone feels confident being themselves, and able to share opinions and insights that strengthen our ways of working.

“You’re doing work that has a real impact on the whole organisation, and that’s so fulfilling.”

The application process for joining MI6 can take between 6 to 9 months.

If successful, you’ll find yourself at the heart of a vital security mission. With your skills and enthusiasm, you’ll be trusted to take on unique tasks, contribute ideas, and explore new opportunities. In doing so, you’ll play a vital role ensuring teams across MI6 have the support they need to keep the country safe.

The role is central London based, no hybrid.

Find out more and apply to open roles on our website.