Richard Graber is returning back to his old stomping grounds, although the world has changed and his role has changed since he last served as the president and chief executive officer of Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. in Milwaukee.
Graber, who recently completed his tenure as U.S. Ambassador to the Czech Republic, is returning to the Milwaukee law firm as a member of its Business Law and International Practices.
Graber served as president and CEO of Reinhart from 2004 until 2006, when he accepted his appointment from former President George W. Bush to the post in Prague.
"We are pleased that Rick is rejoining Reinhart, where he had been for 25 years prior to serving our country as ambassador," said Jerome Janzer, Reinhart’s current CEO and chairman. "Rick’s extensive legal and government experience, combined with the many relationships he developed while in the Czech Republic provide a unique perspective, and one that not many others can offer, and his insights on global affairs and the market economics in Central Europe are a major asset to the firm and its clients."
In his new role, Graber will assist U.S. clients that wish to do business in Europe as well as foreign companies that wish to expand their trade with the United States. He will handle cross-border transactions, address regulatory and political requirements, advise on tax matters, assist in due diligence and advise in cross-border risk analysis and capturing investment opportunities.
"While it was difficult to say farewell to the Czech Republic, I can say that I am happy to be home – both in the U.S. and with Reinhart," Graber said. "I am honored to have served our country and look forward to continue doing so in other ways in the future. I also am honored to be able to again serve clients of the firm."
Graber’s other experience includes serving as chairman of the Republican Party of Wisconsin from 1999 to 2006, and sitting on the Republican National Committee.
BizTimes reporter Alysha Schertz recently sat down with Graber to ask him a few questions.