Thomas is a partner and the team leader of the Intellectual Property, Data Protection and Technology team at Stephens Scown. He has over 15 years’ experience of working in intellectual property and information technology, qualifying as a solicitor in 2016. Thomas holds both a bachelors and masters degree in English from the University of Kent and has undertaken the Graduate Diploma in Law and Legal Practice Course at the University of Law.

Thomas works predominantly with national and international businesses. He also co-leads the firm’s Food and Drink team and has experience of working with a broad range of food and drink businesses, advising on their brand portfolios and consumer facing terms.

As an IP specialist, Thomas’ work includes:

• Leading the team on Thatchers v Aldi
• Advice on the creation and expansion of international trade mark portfolios
• Advising clients on legal frameworks for intellectual property exploitation such as licencing and franchising
• Planning and execution of intra-group IP restructures.

Thomas is valued by IT clients for his intrinsic understanding of both the law and its practical application.

As an IT lawyer, Thomas regularly assists client with:

• Data protection issues, particularly around GDPR and international data processing agreements
• Cyber security
• Drafting and advising on IT contracts such as Software as a Service agreements and End User Licence Agreements
• Software development and licencing agreements
• Compliance for the online sale of goods and services.

Thomas has helped hundreds of IP and IT clients during his time at the firm.

Thomas is a skilled public speaker and provides training for clients on his areas of practice. He has delivered guest lectures at the Universities of Exeter, Falmouth and Bournemouth.

Outside of work, Thomas is a non-executive director of Food Drink Devon, a not-for-profit organisation set up to help quality food and drink producers based in Devon.