David J. Willbrand

Practices

• Corporate Transactions & Securities

Professional Experience

David leads the firm's Early Stage & Emerging Company practice. He represents entrepreneurs, emerging companies, early-stage investors and venture capital funds.

Prior to joining Thompson Hine, David worked in the technology industry, holding the dual role of CFO and General Counsel at a series of venture-backed companies. Prior to that, he practiced law in Cincinnati, Ohio and Boulder, Colorado.

David's unique background is reflected in the creative assistance he provides his clients during their formation, financing, growth and exit.

David combines corporate, finance, securities, compensation and intellectual property legal knowledge with a practical understanding of an emerging company's business needs. His real-world experience allows him to efficiently drive, facilitate and close transactions - whether venture investments, M&A deals, executive employment agreements, option awards, license agreements or supplier contracts.

David is a frequent speaker on venture capital, entrepreneurship and mergers & acquisitions.

David was named in the October 2008 issue of Cincinnati Magazine as one of the most powerful and influential people in the city. David creates value for his clients not only through his business and legal knowledge but also through his relationships and contacts.

David is licensed to practice in Ohio (active) and Colorado (inactive).

David also practices in the Cleveland and Columbus offices:

3900 Key Center
127 Public Square
Cleveland, Ohio 44114-1291
216.566.5935

41 South High Street
Suite 1700
Columbus, Ohio 43215-6101
614.469.3282

Education

• University of Cincinnati College of Law, J.D., 1996, Valedictorian, Editor-in-Chief, Law Review
• Harvard College, B.A., 1992, cum laude

• The Best Lawyers in America, 2007-2012 (Venture Capital Law)
• "Forty Under 40", Cincinnati Business Courier, Class of 2009
• Leading Lawyer, Cincy Magazine, 2006-2012 (Emerging Company Law)
• C-Change Program – Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber’s Leadership Development Program for Young Professionals, 2006