Ted Adams empowers his clients to overcome complex commercial, policy, and regulatory legal challenges, guiding them towards desired outcomes, success, and growth.

With over two decades of experience, Theodore (Ted) Adams brings a unique perspective to advising clients in navigating global business challenges and complex stakeholder environments. His experience spans leadership roles in global retail companies, major national law firms and corporate legal departments, where he has provided strategic counsel on various matters, including marketing and public affairs, infrastructure development, regulatory compliance, and retail store operations.                                 

Ted assists clients in building strategies related to business development, market expansion, and economic development in both domestic and international markets. His experience includes advising on the complexities of global supply chains, evolving digital platforms, brand reputation challenges, and selling products and services in global markets.

Further, he has helped clients secure significant public infrastructure contracts and advised companies on emerging issues in commerce and trade, allied health education, and energy project development. He also led workforce strategy efforts for retail, aerospace, life sciences and agriculture.

Ted’s corporate experience includes executive roles at Starbucks and L Brands, where he led global public affairs, government relations, and brand reputation efforts. From addressing labor and supply chain challenges to advancing public-private partnerships and corporate philanthropy, Ted has operated at the highest levels of organizational leadership. His work in both the pubic and private sectors has resulted in successful policy outcomes, strengthened brand equity, and the development of key community initiatives across the U.S. and internationally.

Education

The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, JD (1991)

The Ohio State University, MA, Sports Management (1992)

Wittenberg University, BA, Political Science (1988)

Distinctions

• Josephine Sitterle Failer Award – volunteer service to students at The Ohio State University
• Outstanding Young Alumnus Award – The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law

Professional Activities

• Board of Directors, The Ohio State University Alumni Board, Executive & Business Operations Committee
• Board of Trustees, Columbus State Community College Foundation
• Board of Trustees, Goodwill Columbus, Executive, Development & Finance Committee
• Development Board, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Behavioral Health and Wellness
• Former Board of Trustees, Compensation Committee, Nationwide Children's Hospital (2006-2011)
• Former Board of Trustees, Jobs Ohio Beverage (statewide governing body for the Spirits Industry) (2015-2023)
• Former United States Senate Commission for the Appointment of Federal Judges in Ohio (2016-2020)
• Former Board of Advisors, The Ohio State University Athletic Council (2020-2022)
• Former Board of Trustees, Vice Chairman, The Ohio Council of Retail Merchants (2002-2020)
• Former Board of Trustees, New Albany Community Authority (Tax and Finance Authority) (2010-2023)
• Former Board Chairman, Make a Wish Foundation for Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana (2001-2018)
• Former Board of Trustees, Mount Carmel Health Foundation – Trinity Health (2012-2015)
• Former Board of Trustees, Prevent Blindness Ohio (2014)