Associate Director, Tax

Associate Director, International Tax

atai Life Sciences is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative treatments for mental health disorders to improve lives globally.

We are seeking a detail-oriented International Associate Director, International Tax to lead and manage all tax-related responsibilities, including compliance, tax planning, and reporting for our global operations. This role requires a hands-on approach and a deep understanding of U.S. corporate tax laws, with a focus on maintaining tax efficiency across our international entities.

You’ll collaborate with cross-functional teams, oversee compliance processes, and provide strategic input on tax implications for business decisions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage timely filing and review of all U.S. federal, state, local, and international tax returns (Forms 1120, 5471, 5472, 1099, FBAR, etc.).
• Ensure compliance with tax obligations across global entities, including VAT and transfer pricing.
• Collaborate with Finance and Accounting teams on accurate tax reporting, including deferred tax positions, valuation allowances, and effective tax rates (tax provision).
• Oversee tax accounting methods and support public filing disclosures.
• Maintain internal controls for tax reporting and ensure Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) 404 compliance.
• Provide strategic tax planning input on business initiatives, acquisitions, and organizational structure optimization.
• If necessary, lead U.S. income tax audits, representing the company to the IRS and state agencies, and negotiating settlements.
• Stay updated on federal and state legislation and communicate key tax issues to senior management.
• Develop a plan to in-source or co-source tax functions to optimize cost.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 7 years of experience in corporate tax, with exposure to all key functions.
• Deep understanding of U.S. corporate tax law; knowledge of international tax law is preferred.
• Proven experience leading tax audits and managing compliance for international entities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, comfortable working cross-functionally and with senior leadership.
• Strong financial and tax analysis skills, with a focus on translating insights into actionable recommendations.

Desired Skills:

• Experience with passive foreign investment company (PFIC) rules and taxation of equity awards.
• Familiarity with general ledger tax account analysis and public company reporting requirements.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth environment and drive continuous improvement in tax processes.

Who will be successful in this role:

At atai, success stems from alignment with our core values:

🌳 Rooted in Purpose: You’re driven by a personal commitment to improving the lives of those with mental health conditions.

👁️ See opportunities where others see none: You’re a problem-solver who thrives in ambiguity and embraces challenges head-on.

🧩 Work the problem: You’re hands-on and adaptable, always finding effective solutions through collaboration.

🛣️ Keep it simple: You prioritize clarity and simplicity, focusing on what matters to drive impactful results.