Norma

Norma Jackson serves as Thompson Coburn’s Chief Opportunity & Attorney Development Officer, leading the firm’s strategy for inclusion, attorney development, and professional growth. With a combination of strategic vision, creativity, and deep experience in talent management, she works to foster an environment where attorneys can thrive at every stage of their careers.

In partnership with firm leadership, practice leaders, and key committees, Norma leads initiatives that that support attorney training, professional development, engagement, retention, and long-term career success. She serves as a trusted advisor and thought leader, helping to align talent strategies with the firm’s business objectives and long-term vision.

Norma oversees programs that support career development, leadership training, mentoring, and succession planning. She also collaborates closely with the firm’s affinity groups and leads initiatives that promote a culture of belonging and inclusion across the organization. Through strategic partnerships with legal, business, and community organizations nationwide, she helps expand opportunities for professional growth and engagement.

Drawing on her background in human resources and talent development, Norma uses data-driven insights, feedback, and best practices to identify opportunities for continuous improvement. Her approach combines thoughtful analysis with practical solutions designed to enhance the attorney experience, support high performance, and strengthen the firm’s ability to attract, develop, and retain exceptional talent.

Passionate about creating pathways to success, Norma is committed to building programs and opportunities that empower attorneys to achieve their professional goals while advancing Thompson Coburn’s culture of excellence, collaboration, and inclusion.

Before joining Thompson Coburn, Norma held several talent development, recruitment, and inclusion-focused leadership roles at the University of Missouri in Columbia. During her tenure, she designed and led cultural competency programs for faculty and professional staff, established the university’s first standalone diversity and inclusion center within a college, and managed recognition programs honoring outstanding leaders in diversity and inclusion. A graduate of the University of Missouri School of Law, Norma brings a strong foundation in leadership development, organizational strategy, and inclusive excellence to her work, helping create opportunities for individuals and teams to achieve their full potential.