McDermott Will & Schulte, a global law firm

John Karasek advises public and private companies in relation to US and international tax matters. He represents clients in a range of industries, with an emphasis on life sciences, software and emerging technologies. John advises on matters such as procurement operations, manufacturing, IP planning, trading and principal companies, and distribution models.

John brings a unique, business-driven approach to tax planning, having previously been a member of the Value Chain Management consulting group at a Big Four accounting firm. John develops a comprehensive understanding of his clients’ goals, the business’ core value drivers, and industry trends, and ultimately helps clients integrate tax planning into their strategic objectives.

John has presented on tax matters at the Tax Executives Institute and the American Bar Association at regional and national meetings. While in law school, John served as an associate editor for the Washington University Global Studies Law Review.

Linda Mangini* directs firmwide administration. She oversees and leads on firm administrative initiatives in the United States, Europe, and Asia to continually increase internal and external service levels, as well as efficiencies in the firm’s administrative processes. Linda has extensive firm, office, and practice group administration experience, having worked closely with firm leadership to implement and oversee strategic growth both in the US and internationally. Linda also directs the Tax and Private Client Practice Groups.

*Non-lawyer professional

Susan E. Ryba focuses her practice on federal tax controversy matters and tax litigation, particularly advising clients in the technology, healthcare, and pharmaceutical sectors, as well as high-net-worth individuals and complex partnerships.

Susan has substantial experience in all stages of federal tax controversies, including audits, administrative appeals, alternative dispute resolution proceedings, and litigation. She has resolved most of her matters at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) examination level or through the IRS Independent Office of Appeals (IRS Appeals) and other dispute resolution forums. She advises clients on a broad range of domestic and international tax issues, including transfer pricing, research credit, effectively connected income, passive activity losses, Subpart F, Section 965, economic substance and other related doctrines, worthless stock and debt deductions, foreign-derived intangible income, foreign tax credits, summons enforcement, and penalties.

Susan frequently speaks at seminars sponsored by the Tax Executives Institute and teaches trial skills for the National Institute for Trial Advocacy.

Advises US and non-US multinationals on corporate and international tax matters

Counsels on domestic and cross-border acquisitions, dispositions, restructurings, and liquidations

Guides publicly traded and privately held companies on spin-offs Represents clients in obtaining private letter rulings and other IRS guidance