Keith Mitchell qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1967 and enjoyed a successful career in publishing and professional education until selling his business interests in 1990 to enter public service.

He has served as Oxfordshire County Councillor for the Bloxham Division since 1989. He was Social Services Spokesman in the hung council from 1995 to 1999; Conservative Group Leader since 1999 and has been Leader of the Council since 5 November 2001.

Keith is the Oxfordshire appointee to the South East England Regional Assembly and is Chairman of the Assembly's Regional Planning Committee. Key responsibilities include strategic planning, housing and transport policy in the South East. He is Chairman of the South East County Council Leaders Group.

Keith served as Chairman of the Audit Committee of the North Oxfordshire College since its formation. Following creation of the Oxford and Cherwell Valley College, he was appointed a governor and elected as Chairman of the Audit Committee to which he brings his expertise as a Chartered Accountant.
Being Leader of the Council is more than a full-time job but, when he can find time to relax, he enjoys good food and wine, playing the piano (badly) and reading avidly - particularly histories and biographies.