LLME is pleased to announce the promotions of Alex Austin, Sean Nelson and Vanessa Reyes to the position of tax manager.
Alex joined the firm in January 2023 and specializes in trust and estate taxation. With eight years of public accounting experience, Alex prepares and reviews complex tax returns for high-net-worth individuals, families and their associated entities, including fiduciary, gift and business tax filings. Before joining LLME, Alex worked at Ernst & Young and KPMG, followed by time as a sole proprietor offering a range of accounting services. As a member of LLME’s Trust and Estate Department and Education Committee, he is committed to mentoring and supporting the next generation of accountants. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with concentrations in accounting and economics from The Ohio State University.
Sean joined LLME in 2020 and provides a wide range of tax services, including tax planning, consulting and return preparation for real estate partnerships, high-net-worth individuals and clients with international filings. In
addition to his client work, Sean is an active member of the firm’s Recruiting and International Tax committees. He holds a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from the University of California, Santa Barbara and a master’s degree in accounting from California State University, Long Beach.

Vanessa began her career with LLME in 2012 as a tax intern and has worked with the firm ever since in various capacities. She transitioned from a full-time staff associate to providing services as an independent contractor from 2017 to 2023 before resuming a full-time role in January 2024. With 12 years of public accounting experience, Vanessa manages a diverse portfolio of tax clients, including high-net-worth individuals and pass-through entities. She is also actively involved in the firm’s Recruiting Committee. She holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a master’s degree in taxation from the University of San Diego.
“Alex, Sean, and Vanessa exemplify the commitment to excellence and client service that defines LLME,” said Managing Partner Brian Surratt. “We’re thrilled to recognize their hard work, leadership and expertise, and we look forward to their continued impact as tax managers.”