MLA Places Stephen R. Calkins as Chief Legal Officer at Ashley Furniture Industries Inc.

Hanover, MD (July 29, 2019) — Major, Lindsey & Africa (MLA), the world’s leading legal search firm, today announced the placement of Stephen R. Calkins as chief legal officer of Ashley Furniture Industries Inc. in Tampa, FL. The search was conducted by PJ Harari, partner in MLA’s In-House Counsel Practice Group of Southern California.

In his new role, Steve will lead the global affairs of the company, including managing, advising and counseling on legal and business transactions, and overseeing the provision of all legal, compliance and product regulatory services. In doing so, he will supervise the internal legal team and efforts related to litigation, corporate, employment and HR matters, M&A transactions, contract negotiations, compliance and regulatory issues, intellectual property, procurement, and real estate.

“Steve’s more than 21 years of progressive legal and operational experience makes him the right executive to take the helm of the legal team at this growing international company,” said PJ Harari. “Steve is a bright, committed individual with a strong work ethic. Not only will his leadership have an immediate impact, but he is also sure to add value in many other strategic areas of the organization in the coming years.”

Steve spent the last 16 years with Office Depot, Inc., where he held various executive positions in both legal and operations. He started in the legal department as senior counsel leading litigation, negotiations and M&A efforts. His responsibilities increased over the years, culminating in his role as the EVP, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary responsible for the global legal affairs of the company. Steve also spent over seven years leading various operational functions within Office Depot, including most recently as president of the Business Solutions Division, where he was primarily responsible for the B2B sales division. Prior to joining Office Depot in 2003, Steve spent several years in private practice, lastly with Kilpatrick Townsend in Charlotte, North Carolina.