Jessica Lee Chicago UPS Store
Enterprise Solutions Architect
Jessica Lee of Chicago UPS Store is a successful entrepreneur, business consultant, and passionate community advocate based in Chicago, where she owns two UPS stores in the vibrant Northside business district. Over the years, Lee has built a reputation as a versatile businesswoman, successfully owning and operating a diverse range of businesses, from nightclubs and bars to restaurants. Her entrepreneurial journey is marked not just by her business acumen but also by her commitment to inclusivity, social responsibility, and empowering others.
Throughout her career, Jessica has made it a point to provide opportunities for marginalized individuals, including friends from the LGBTQ+ community and those in need of a second chance. She has created work environments where employees from all walks of life feel respected, valued, and welcomed. Lee’s remarkable success story is even more inspiring when you consider that she is a deaf, single mother of two children, defying the odds and paving the way for others to follow in her footsteps.
Early Life and Background
Born in South Korea, she grew up in a culture that emphasized the importance of family, respect, and community. Her parents instilled in her a strong work ethic and a belief in the power of perseverance. These early life lessons laid the foundation for her business philosophy and her drive to push boundaries and challenge the status quo.
As a first-generation immigrant, Jessica navigated the complexities of establishing herself in a new country while pursuing her dreams. She was the first in her family to explore small-business ownership, and her success has been a source of inspiration for others in her community.
Education and Career Beginnings
Jessica’s academic journey took her to the University of Illinois, Chicago (UIC), where she studied Biochemistry, Business Law, and Accounting. She furthered her education at DePaul University, where she honed her business knowledge and developed a strong foundation in finance and management. Driven by a desire to expand her skill set, Lee pursued an MBA from the Quantic School of Business and Technology, an innovative online business school based in Washington, D.C.
In addition to her formal education, Jessica became a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), further enhancing her financial expertise and solidifying her credentials in the business world. These qualifications have equipped her with the tools to excel in a wide range of business ventures, including her roles as a CFO for startups and non-profits, as well as her work as an Enterprise Solutions Architect and Business Consultant.
Entrepreneurial Journey and Impact
Jessica Lee's entrepreneurial journey has been anything but conventional. Rather than following a set path, she seized opportunities as they arose, shifting from one business venture to the next with impressive agility. In her late twenties, she owned multiple nightclubs, bars, and restaurants, each of which she transformed into successful, profitable establishments. These early experiences shaped her approach to business and deepened her understanding of operations, marketing, and customer service.
Lee's entrepreneurial ventures were not solely focused on profit but also on building inclusive, supportive environments for her employees. She made it a priority to hire individuals from underrepresented and marginalized communities, empowering people who might otherwise struggle to find work opportunities. This focus on inclusivity has earned her respect not only as a business owner but also as a leader who values people and fosters a sense of belonging.
Transition to UPS Franchise Ownership
In a significant career pivot, Jessica transitioned from the nightlife and restaurant industry to franchise ownership. She currently owns two UPS stores in the Northside of Chicago, where she continues her commitment to providing exceptional customer service while maintaining a focus on community engagement. As a successful franchise owner, Lee has leveraged her broad experience in business operations to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and create a welcoming environment for both customers and employees.
Business Philosophy and Community Advocacy
She believes in the power of diversity and inclusion. She has made it her mission to create business environments where all employees, regardless of background or life experience, feel valued and supported. Her businesses are a testament to her belief that a company’s success is not just measured by the bottom line but by the positive impact it has on the community.
Her advocacy extends beyond her businesses. Lee is a vocal proponent of social causes that support marginalized groups, and she uses her platform to give back to her community. As a mother, entrepreneur, and advocate, she strives to be a role model for her children and for others who are facing challenges.
Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and community. From her humble beginnings as a first-generation immigrant to becoming a successful entrepreneur and business consultant, she has continuously defied expectations and proven that success is attainable, regardless of the obstacles. Her commitment to inclusivity, hard work, and family values inspires business owners and community leaders alike.
Whether through her work as a franchise owner, her advocacy for marginalized communities, or her guidance as a business consultant, Jessica Lee’s impact continues to grow, and she remains a powerful force in the Chicago business community.
