Jessica Lee Chicago UPS Store • United States of America

Jessica Lee of Chicago UPS Store is a pioneering entrepreneur, consultant, and passionate community leader based in Chicago. As the owner of two successful UPS stores in the city's Northside, she is known for blending business excellence with a deep commitment to fostering inclusion and opportunity. A deaf single mother of two, Jessica's story is one of overcoming obstacles, challenging expectations, and using her success to empower others, particularly marginalized communities.

Born in South Korea and raised with a strong focus on family and hard work, Jessica immigrated to the United States with her family in pursuit of a better life. As the first person in her family to pursue small business ownership, Jessica broke new ground. She proved that resilience, creativity, and a commitment to her values could lead to entrepreneurial success. Over the years, Jessica has become a steadfast advocate for diversity in the workplace, focusing on providing employment opportunities to underrepresented individuals, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, immigrants, and people seeking a second chance.

Her academic background is just as diverse and accomplished as her career. Jessica studied Biochemistry, Business Law, and Accounting at the University of Illinois, Chicago (UIC) and DePaul University before earning an MBA from the Quantic School of Business and Technology. As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), she has the expertise to navigate the complexities of running profitable businesses while maintaining a strong sense of social responsibility and community impact.

Before venturing into the UPS franchise business, Jessica’s entrepreneurial path led her into the nightlife and hospitality industry, where she managed and owned several nightclubs, bars, and restaurants in her twenties. These ventures, while challenging, gave Jessica invaluable insights into managing people, building brands, and understanding the importance of customer service. These early experiences shaped her leadership style, emphasizing creativity, empathy, and the belief that businesses should create spaces where individuals feel valued and supported.

Jessica's story is one of continuous reinvention—where the personal and professional intersect to create a lasting impact. Through her businesses, she seeks to build financial success and create pathways for others to thrive, encouraging diverse and inclusive workplaces at every level. Her vision is a future where opportunity is available to a few and accessible to all.