Atanas Gechev begins a second 5-year term as Chairman of the State Intelligence Agency

The National Assembly voted to entrust Atanas Gechev with a second consecutive 5-year term at the helm of the State Intelligence Agency. The decision was made following a hearing in the relevant parliamentary committee, with only the members of "Democratic Bulgaria" voting "against".

"I possess experience in the field of diplomacy and interaction with the special services of partner countries from NATO and the EU," Gechev shares.

Professional biography and education

Atanas Gechev was born on September 13, 1969, in Yambol. His expertise is built upon a solid academic foundation:

  • He graduated from the "S. M. Kirov" Technical School of Electronics and Automation;
  • Master's degree from the "Vasil Levski" National Military University (1993);
  • Master's degree from the "G. S. Rakovski" Military Academy (1998);
  • Strategic course for leadership activities in national security (2018).

Career path

Gechev's career began as a reconnaissance platoon commander, after which he held a number of responsible positions:

  • Operational analyst in an electronic intelligence brigade;
  • Many years of experience in the "Military Intelligence" service (where he reached the position of Deputy Director);
  • Diplomatic experience as a military attaché in Greece, Great Britain, Germany, the Czech Republic, and Italy.

Gechev has also completed numerous specialized courses in intelligence and security in the USA, Israel, and Germany, which establishes him as an expert with international recognition.