MLA Places Thomas V. Skinner as University of San Diego’s Newest General Counsel

Hanover, MD (February 24, 2020) — Major, Lindsey & Africa (MLA), the world’s leading legal search firm, today announced the placement of Thomas V. Skinner as general counsel and advisor to the president at the University of San Diego in San Diego, California. The search was conducted by Heather Fine, partner in Chicago, and Joanna Herman, managing director in San Diego, both of MLA’s In-House Counsel Recruiting group.

In his new role as general counsel, Tom will serve as the principal legal officer for the university, with overall responsibility for the vision and leadership of the legal strategy. He will serve as an advisor and counselor to the president, senior leadership team, and board of trustees and serve as a strategic thought partner on all critical matters involving the university. He will also lead, manage and oversee the office of the general counsel, including developing and mentoring employees within the office.

“Tom was the ideal fit for the University of San Diego’s general counsel role as he possesses an extremely strategic perspective with an extensive legal background,” said Joanna Herman. “This was a highly competitive national search,” Heather Fine added. “We believe Tom’s mission and culture-driven approach will help the university thrive and will ultimately be a huge asset to the university.”

Tom has more than 30 years of in-house, government and private law firm experience working with universities, the Environmental Protection Agency and for several AmLaw 200 firms. He most recently served as vice president of legal affairs and general counsel for Louisiana State University, a major public research university. He was legal advisor to the board of supervisors and the president, managing in-house and outside counsel, directing action on public records and open meetings matters, supervising the Title IX program, and working closely with the government affairs staff on legislative and executive branch issues.