David A. Thompson

About David A. Thompson

Senior legal and business advisor with experience serving as General Counsel, corporate counsel, and member of the Minnesota State Senate. I work closely with executive teams to navigate complex commercial, regulatory, and operational issues, with a focus on practical, business-oriented solutions.My approach is grounded in judgment. Legal advice is most valuable when it is aligned with business objectives, clearly communicated, and actionable. I bring a combination of legal experience, operational perspective, and real-world understanding to help organizations manage risk while continuing to move forward.Having spent years in litigation, I understand the cost and disruption of disputes. That experience informs how I advise clients today—structuring agreements, guiding decision-making, and addressing issues early to avoid unnecessary exposure.I have extensive experience negotiating and structuring complex commercial agreements, advising on employment and regulatory matters, and working directly with leadership teams to support business strategy.

Experience

1. Legal Counsel (Division Lead Life Science & Environment, North America)

   MANN+HUMMEL

   Mar 2023 — Present · Gastonia, NC, US

   Lead legal advisor to North American leadership across Life Science and Environment divisionsNegotiate and structure complex commercial agreements supporting operational and revenue objectivesAdvise on employment, regulatory, and compliance matters in coordination with HR and executive leadershipOversee litigation strategy and manage outside counsel across employment and commercial mattersSupport business decision-making by aligning legal strategy with operational priorities

Education

• University of North Dakota

  Bachelor's Degree, Economics and Political Science

• University of Minnesota

  Doctor of Law (J.D.), Law School