Glenn Osaki is the director of the USC U.S.-China Institute. He was appointed to the role by Dean Willow Bay in July 2024. Founded in 2006, the institute advances mutual understanding between the U.S. and China through educational, professional and cultural exchange that is student-centered and industry-engaged. Specifically, USCI provides research and collaboration opportunities for students and scholars; tailored training, career services and supportive networks for diverse student groups and alumni; and partnership for industries of practice. 

For the last five years at USC, Osaki served as senior vice president and chief communications officer, and senior advisor to the president, international communications and marketing. He spearheaded the university’s approach to global branding and international thought leadership, elevating USC’s visibility and reputation throughout Asia, Europe, Latin America and Africa. 

Osaki returned to the university in 2019, bringing more than 30 years of experience in strategic communications, most recently serving as president of Asia-Pacific for MSL, an international public relations firm.

During his 32-year career with MSL, the public relations network of Publicis Groupe, Osaki managed issues and strategic communications for a wide range of clients across industries and geographies. He has been a key adviser to major international clients such as Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola, Volkswagen Group, Netflix, Mondelez, Nike and Nestle, among many others. While leading MSL’s Asia-Pacific operations, he oversaw a development strategy that grew a 15-member team into a regional powerhouse with more than 40 offices and 1,500 consultants.

Osaki has been recognized for his achievements with numerous honors, including being named Asia-Pacific PR Agency Head of the Year by Campaign Asia, being honored for Outstanding Individual Achievement by The Holmes Report and guiding MSL to six selections as Asia-Pacific PR Consultancy of the Year.

Prior to relocating to Shanghai in 2005, he was managing director of MSL’s Los Angeles office, which he helped develop into a leading public relations firm in the region.

Osaki has strong connections to USC, having earned his master’s degree in public relations from USC Annenberg. He currently serves on the Board of Advisors of the USC Center for Public Relations at USC Annenberg.