Liisa Thomas is a recognized authority in privacy, cybersecurity, and AI governance law, serving as a go-to advisor for in-house counsel and C-suite executives at Fortune 500, multinational and global companies. Based in Chicago and London, she brings a practical, business-focused and cross-cultural approach to advising clients on privacy, cybersecurity, digital advertising, AI, emerging technology and compliance law. She is co-leader of the Privacy and Cybersecurity team.
Recognized by both Chambers Global and Chambers USA (the latter with a nationwide ranking), Liisa is known for translating complex legal requirements—such as GDPR, CCPA, BIPA, TCPA and cross-border data transfer issues and rapidly evolving AI and automated-decision making rules—into actionable strategies that protect enterprise value and manage risk.
Having lived in the Middle East, Europe and the U.S. and with an advanced degree in organizational change, Liisa is highly skilled in both translating business needs and cultures across borders and coordinating efforts across continents to protect data, assure compliance with all applicable regulations and advance business goals.
A sought-after keynote speaker and panelist, Liisa presents at leading privacy, cybersecurity, AI and compliance conferences, as well as executive forums and legal seminars. She is recognized for delivering engaging, insightful presentations on emerging privacy and AI regulations and best practices. Liisa is trainer for the International Association of Privacy Professionals and an adjunct professor at Northwestern University Law School, where she helps train the next generation of privacy and compliance professionals.
Liisa was the 2020 recipient of the Legacy Award from Illinois Legal Aid Online, an organization committed to access to justice. Beyond her legal practice, Liisa serves on the board of trustees of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and plays violin in the Chicago Bar Association Symphony Orchestra, an ensemble of lawyers and judges.
Liisa is the managing partner of the firm’s Chicago office.
