Jessica Adams
Chief Compliance Officer. Menlo Park.Jessica’s journey into the venture capital world began at the SEC, where she was deeply involved in the early stages of crypto regulation. Her role at the Commission allowed her to interface with several pioneering entrepreneurs in the space, igniting her passion for venture capital and its potential for positive global impact.
As Chief Compliance Officer at Lightspeed, Jessica focuses on regulatory compliance and monitoring risk across various jurisdictions. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique priorities and needs of founders and LPs makes her an invaluable asset to the firm. “I look forward to conversations with all stakeholders, learning about their priorities and discussing how Lightspeed legal and compliance can serve those needs,” she said.
Jessica thrives on building relationships and facilitating effective decision-making. The compliance function is unique in that she plays a key role on all teams across the firm. Building trust and being brought into the fold across operations is integral to ensuring that the firm effectively navigates a complex regulatory environment. And she prides herself on thinking two, three, sometimes four steps ahead.
Outside of work, Jessica is dedicated to maintaining a balanced lifestyle. She prioritizes exercise, whether cycling, running, or doing yoga, to reset and recharge. Her upbringing on the East Coast, where her parents owned several small businesses, instilled in her a strong work ethic and a spirit of perseverance. The best part of Jessica’s day is unwinding on her deck, watching the ferry go by at sunset with a great glass of wine, and her children’s laughter in the background.
- Favorite Album Bob Seger, Greatest Hits - I love classic rock, and this album always brings back great college memories.
- Favorite Book A well-written mystery novel with an unsuspecting twist.
- Favorite Hobby Travel. Best trip was a safari in Tanzania.