Corporate and Transactional Attorney Joe Thompson Joins Ballard Spahr in Minneapolis

Joe R. Thompson—a corporate and transactional attorney who has handled more than 200 acquisitions and divestitures in his 25 years of practice—has joined Ballard Spahr as Of Counsel in its Business and Transactions Department and Mergers and Acquisitions Group. He began his legal career at Lindquist & Vennum, which merged with Ballard Spahr in 2018. He is rejoining colleagues in the firm’s Minneapolis office.

Mr. Thompson’s matters center on the agribusiness, food and beverage, and renewable energy industries. Over his career, he has handled more than 100 capital raises, including private equity and venture capital financings; negotiated more than 5,000 commercial transactions; and advised the boards of more than 100 startups. His recent notable work matters include leading cross-border commercial transactions and international corporate governance matters for a Forbes 100 global agribusiness supply chain provider and advising a more than $150 million pet food facility in its construction and business matters.

“Joe is an outstanding lawyer. His industry experience positions him well to advise clients in sustainable agriculture and other important growth areas for the firm,” said Ballard Spahr M&A Co-Leader Barbara Lano Rummel. “He combines business acumen with a commitment to understanding his clients’ businesses and helping them surpass their objectives. We couldn’t be more pleased to have him rejoin us.”

Mr. Thompson joins the firm from The Scoular Company, a global agriculture and food organization.

“I began my career with many of the Ballard attorneys in Minneapolis,” Mr. Thompson said. “Ballard’s M&A lawyers are well-known for their service, and the firm’s strong reputation in agribusiness, food and beverage, and renewable energy are key to my client base. It was the right fit for my clients and for me.”

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