The new chairman of Oxfordshire County Council, Charles Shouler, plans to promote the local economy while protecting the environment.
Mr Shouler, a retired farmer and former leader of the council's Conservative group, who represents the Bicester South division, said he hoped to visit as many businesses in the county as possible.
He said: "The challenge facing the county council, together with the district councils, is how to support and encourage new companies, particularly the 'spin out' developments from academic research.
"This will maintain a buoyant economy while at the same time protecting the pleasant environment which makes the county such a desirable place to live and work."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article