Stephen Eckert

I lead Plante Moran’s National Tax Office (NTO), which is the firm’s center for advanced technical knowledge with expertise in structuring merger and acquisition transactions, navigating complex federal tax issues and accounting method planning, engaging on tax controversy matters, and providing strategic insights on tax legislation and emerging trends. I consult clients across all service and industry lines advising them on tax policy, the impact of legislative and market developments, and the availability of tax planning opportunities. I have additional expertise with tax credit and incentive projects, including the development and structuring of renewable energy projects. My clients appreciate that I focus on their business objectives to structure transactions and tax planning strategies that respond to the evolving tax rules while also accomplishing their short-term and long-term goals.

I frequently write and speak at business, accounting, and legal events on tax policy and emerging tax issues. As a firmwide expert on tax issues, I’ve contributed to both internal and external publications and have been quoted in various media outlets regarding recent tax legislation — both during its progression through Congress and throughout its ongoing implementation.

Plante Moran has been an ideal firm for me since it allows me to work with great clients and colleagues while supporting the evolvement of my own career path. I consider my participation in the growth of the National Tax Office — including the recruiting and development of a growing, dynamic team — to be one of my greatest accomplishments. I’ve also had the great fortune of continuing my personal development by consulting with an increasingly wide array of clients, including private equity, manufacturing and service businesses, universities, governmental entities, and public transit agencies.

I received my B.A. in political science from the University of Notre Dame, my J.D. from the Chicago-Kent College of Law, and my LL.M. from the New York University School of Law.

When I’m not working, I love traveling and exploring new places. I enjoy visiting neighborhoods across Chicago, spending time with my family in Michigan and Wisconsin, and seeing friends across the country.