Theodore Adams

Ted helps clients build strategies related to business development, market expansion, and economic development in domestic and international markets. He brings a strong record of performance as a trusted adviser to global consumer retail brands in textile and apparel, personal care and beauty, and food and beverage. 

Ted has experience with significant aspects of managing a global business, including reputation risk, external affairs, global trade, supply chain, store development, and retail operations. He is committed to advising clients through complex challenges to maximize opportunities for growth.

Prior to joining the firm, Ted was senior vice president of public affairs for Starbucks, where he helped lead the company’s external affairs portfolio in the U.S., the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Canada. He also spent several years as vice president of company affairs for the former L Brands Corp. and its portfolio of businesses, including Bath & Body Works, Victoria’s Secret, PINK, The Limited, Express, Structure, Henri Bendel, and Lerner (now New York & Company). Ted was a key adviser for new retail concepts, global sourcing and production operations, stakeholder engagement, risk management, and crisis preparedness.

Ted also has comprehensive experience working in the public sector at many levels of government. He was a Special Assistant United States Attorney, deputy legal counsel to the governor of the state of Ohio, and a senior counsel to the Ohio Attorney General.