An innovative pioneer in the film tax credit industry, John Ryan is recognized for securing the first ever US State tax credit on ad production for an advertiser and establishing the inaugural process for strategic access to these tax credits. His contributions elevated the industry from its infancy into a sophisticated framework now recognized as the gold standard.

John has cultivated collaborative relationships with leading industry trade associations, including the ANA, the 4A’s, and the AICP, thoughtfully navigating their complex and sometimes competing interests to drive key initiatives. He has contributed to comprehensive white papers, in-depth reports, and negotiated the industry’s first Non-Disclosure Agreement between the ad community and the AICP, enabling extraordinary data sharing between production companies and third-party administrators.

A visionary leader, John has demonstrated exceptional talent for organizational building, recruiting and training a team that set industry benchmarks. His leadership extends beyond individual achievements, establishing sustainable infrastructures that elevate industry practices.

John has authored legislation which establishes new state film tax credit programs that include advertisers and has provided data analytics and insights to legislative teams, trade associations, and committees in both houses of state legislatures. This expertise has made him a sought-after speaker at industry conferences, professional committees, and national webinars.  His annual compendium, the Alta Almanac, is widely recognized as the definitive guide to U.S. state film tax credit programs.

Leading the Alta team, John continues to drive the evolution of tax credit processes for advertisers. His strategic priorities focus on increasing operational speed, enhancing transparency, reducing costs, and making sophisticated tax credit strategies accessible to advertisers of all sizes.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, John serves in multiple advisory capacities;  as a Trustee for the California Society of CPAs Education Foundation, a Board member on the City of Los Angeles’ Sunset-Spaulding Square Historic Preservation Overlay Zone, and a CPA representative on audit committee of Project Angel Food, which provides medically tailored meals to Los Angeles’s most vulnerable populations.

Outside his professional endeavors, John maintains an active and balanced lifestyle. He finds rejuvenation through hiking and fitness training, often retreating to his mountain cabin for moments of reflection and relaxation. A passionate traveler and culinary explorer, he consistently seeks new experiences, always with an eye toward his next adventure.

Michelle leads the financial reporting and audit preparation team at Alta.  Known for her strategic vision, customer-focused leadership, and analytical rigor, Michelle has been instrumental in driving innovation and growth both within the company and the industry.

A cornerstone of Michelle’s career is her groundbreaking achievement in tax credit services: developing the first comprehensive process and best practices for creating and auditing financial statements specifically tailored to U.S. film tax credits for advertisers. This pioneering framework combines cutting-edge technology with deep legislative expertise, setting a new gold standard for transparency, efficiency, and excellence in the industry.

With more than two decades of experience in accounting, finance, and strategic business development, Michelle has redefined the company’s approach to financial services. 

Beyond her professional achievements, Michelle is passionate about sports and travel. A devoted fan of USC Football, the LA Dodgers, the Boston Celtics, and tennis, she brings the same energy and competitive spirit to her professional endeavors.  Her love of travel reflects her curiosity and openness to new perspectives, qualities that enable her to approach complex business challenges with creativity and effectiveness.

Through her innovative approach and unwavering commitment to excellence, Michelle continues to transform the film tax credit industry, leaving a lasting impact at the intersection of finance, technology, and entertainment.