Sebastian is a recognized tax professional with extensive experience in M&A, capital market and real estate transactions as well as private equity, venture capital and incentive schemes. He regularly represents his clients in tax courts in complex tax disputes. Sebastian also has deep knowledge in company law and accounting related matters. As the secretary of a working group appointed by the Ministry of Justice, he drafted the amended provisions into the Finnish Companies Act regarding cross-border mergers and demergers.
CV
Career
- Avance Attorneys Ltd, Partner 2019–
- Taxpoint Attorneys Ltd, Partner (2014–2019)
- KPMG Finland, Partner (2007–2014)
- KPMG Finland, Tax Advisor, Manager, Senior Manager and Director (1998–2006)
- Helsinki Tax Office, Tax Official (1997–1998)
Education
- Master of Laws, University of Helsinki, 1995
Rankings
2025
“Lead partner Sebastian Kellas is most likely the best tax adviser in Finland – his skills in tax structuring and tax litigation are awesome.”
“Pragmatic approach and strong know-how within the tax field.”
The Legal 500 2025
2025
“He is very hands-on, very knowledgeable, easy to communicate with and provides great reports and advice.”
“He is very creative about his solutions, capable of applying them in practice to the company’s best interest and everyday life.”
Chambers Europe 2025
2025
Sebastian Kellas is ranked as “Highly Regarded” in the Real estate and Transactional tax categories.
ITR World Tax 2025
2024
Sebastian Kellas is ranked as a “Thought Leader” and “Recommended” in Corporate Tax – Advisory.
Lexology Index 2024 (formerly Who’s Who Legal)
2024
“Sebastian is probably the best tax expert I have ever worked with, and I have worked with many tax experts.”
“Sebastian Kellas is a talented structuring and tax lawyer with out-of-the-box solutions.”
“Sebastian has a good understanding of how to turn tax law into practical action. He’s also a problem solver and has good contact with the tax authorities.”
“He is very knowledgeable about tax law in general, but also about the Finnish [specific practice area] market. There is no need to ever challenge the advice provided by Sebastian and his team.”
Chambers Europe 2024