Keith has worked in economic development for more than 35 years, both as a practitioner and a consultant.

He began his career at HM Treasury in the Industrial Policy Division, working on labour market and enterprise initiatives. He went on to work for an economic development agency, first in inward investment, then in regional development and lastly in economic research.

In 1994 he helped establish ERS and has led the company for 30 years. He served two terms as Chair of the Institute of Economic Development (IED) and spent 15 years as a Board Member of the institute. He is a Trustee of Virgin Money Foundation, which makes grants to community organisations in the North of England and Scotland. Keith is a regular commentator on economic development issues on television and radio as well as in the print media.