Jessica “Jess” Chao is the founder and principal of Invisible Things Co., a communications and narrative strategy consultancy that helps founders and leaders uncover what they want to be known for, where they have the credibility to own it and turn it into a Narrative Blueprint that guides how they communicate, make decisions and lead. Chao pairs narrative work with fractional brand and communications leadership to build reputation, strengthen market position and drive long-term enterprise growth for B2B and B2C companies.

Before starting her consultancy, Chao spent nearly two decades shaping the stories of some of the world’s most recognized consumer brands. Most recently, she served as the inaugural vice president of brand marketing and corporate affairs at Din Tai Fung North America, where she oversaw brand management, growth marketing, PR and communications, digital and social, corporate social responsibility and guest service and insights and helped lead the company through a record year of growth. Recognized by QSR Magazine as one of its “28 Young Restaurant Leaders to Watch” in 2021, Chao championed purpose-driven and culture-first strategies as the head of PR and corporate communications at Panda Express. Earlier in her career, she built her brand and communications foundation in the beauty and healthcare industries at Neutrogena, Allergan and Revlon.

Chao holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from USC Annenberg, where she serves as an adjunct instructor and a board member of the USC Center for Public Relations. Whether advising a founder, teaching a classroom or writing a story, she is drawn to the same work — helping hidden potential become visible reality