Meet the #facesofatai: Jenna Shih (US)

In this week's edition of #facesofatai, we are excited to feature Jenna Shih , our VP of Tax. Jenna plays a crucial role in our Finance chapter, bringing extensive experience and a keen interest in non-traditional life science companies to the table. Join us as we explore her inspiring journey, her integral role at atai, and how her alignment with our values and her personal passion shapes her professional outlook.?

What inspired you to join atai??

Before joining atai, I helped a number of large and small multinational companies with all facets of the tax function: strategy, driving business efficiencies, cross-border mergers and acquisitions, transfer pricing, compliance, reporting, and operational matters. Although I have experience across a broad cross-section of industries, during my last few years as a consultant, I became very interested in non-traditional life science companies and the challenges they face. As I learned more about atai, I became excited for the opportunity to work with motivated, high-performing colleagues, tackle fascinating issues, and participate (indirectly) in the development of mental health solutions.??

Can you describe your role at atai??

I lead the tax function at atai, handling all aspects of tax planning, compliance, reporting, and controversy. I am also a cross-functional collaborator, working with the Legal, Operations, Finance, Strategy, People and Culture, and R&D teams to help identify and implement optimal operational, governance, and structuring solutions across the business.???

How does the company culture at atai align with your personal values and aspirations??

The company’s values center around Conscious Care, Collaborative Innovation, Bold Entrepreneurship, and Radical Responsibility. I feel aligned with all four of the company’s values but the latter two strongly resonate with me. I have always appreciated accountability, initiative, communication, psychological safety, creativity, and a growth mindset in my professional career.??

What sets atai apart from other organizations you have worked for, and why do you choose to stay??

All organizations have their idiosyncrasies; however, atai does an especially good job of “walking the walk” and adhering to its values. The company emphasizes self-care and mental health and atai management has successfully fostered a culture that results in happier and more productive employees. I choose to stay at atai because I have wonderful colleagues, and I feel like my contributions to the company are valued and make a difference.?

What personal passion project are you working on outside of work??

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu! I started practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2007. It has been a long and, at times, inconsistent road, but it is extremely addicting and incredibly rewarding. The lessons learned on the mats have been instrumental in shaping my personal and professional outlook.?