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L. Philippe Rheault assumed the leadership of The China Institute in 2023 following a 25-year career in the Canadian diplomatic service focused on China and East Asia. Over six postings, he served in Beijing, Taipei, Chongqing (twice), Mongolia, and Guangzhou. He led two of Canada’s four diplomatic missions in Mainland China—as the country’s inaugural Consul General to Chongqing (2012–2017) and later as Consul General for South China, based in Guangzhou (2019–2023).

Philippe has witnessed China’s extraordinary transformation firsthand and was directly involved in many of the key milestones shaping Canada-China relations. His extensive network spans government, business, and academia in both countries and beyond, enabling him to nurture and forge strategic relationships for the Institute and provide advice and strategic insights to a wide cross-section of leaders.

As Director of The China Institute, Philippe aims to position the Institute at the confluence of policy and scholarship—deepening Canada’s understanding of China, exploring China's role in relation to emerging global challenges, and charting paths for informed, productive Canada-China engagement. He also teaches advanced China-focused courses for the Canada School of Public Service and the Canadian Foreign Service Institute.

Philippe holds degrees in Philosophy, Political Science, and Law, is a member of the Québec bar, and serves as an Adjunct Professor of Political Science at the º£½ÇÉçÇø. Frequently cited in Canadian and international media, he has authored and co-authored several articles on China and is professionally fluent in Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, English, and French.