Rich Thomas joined Jefferies in 2025, after nearly two decades at Lazard, where he was a senior leader in Capital Markets Advisory and led the firm’s global efforts advising boards and management teams on shareholder engagement and activism defense strategies.   

Rich has advised companies through some of the most complex and high-profile shareholder situations. His deep experience and trusted relationships position him to help our clients navigate an increasingly dynamic activism landscape. His clients range from some of the largest public companies in the U.S. and Europe to companies at all stages of their public company journey.

Prior to Lazard, Rich served as a Captain in the U.S. Army’s 173rd Airborne Brigade, based in Italy, and deployed to Iraq and the Balkans. He brings exceptional leadership and discipline to his client engagements.

Rich holds an MBA from Harvard University and dual bachelor’s degrees in Mathematics and Mechanical Engineering from the United States Military Academy