Jessica Lee Chicago UPS Store

Enterprise Solutions Architect

Jessica Lee of Chicago UPS Store is a dynamic entrepreneur, business consultant, and advocate for diversity and inclusion based in Chicago. As the owner of two successful UPS stores on the city’s bustling Northside, Jessica has crafted a business that thrives financially and serves as a model for inclusivity and community engagement. A single mother of two and a member of the deaf community, Jessica’s entrepreneurial journey is one of resilience, creativity, and a deep commitment to uplifting those who are often overlooked.

Originally from South Korea, Jessica immigrated to the United States with her family for new opportunities. As the first person in her family to become a small-business owner, Jessica encountered many challenges, including cultural barriers and the experience of being a deaf woman in a hearing-dominated industry. Despite these obstacles, she found strength in her determination and passion for entrepreneurship. Her businesses are built on the foundation of giving back—creating opportunities for marginalized individuals, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, immigrants, and others who may face barriers to employment. For Jessica, business is about growth and profit and creating a community where people can thrive, regardless of background or circumstances.

Jessica’s academic path is just as unconventional as her career. She studied Biochemistry, Business Law, and Accounting at the University of Illinois, Chicago (UIC) and DePaul University, where she developed a strong foundation in the sciences and business principles. She later earned her MBA from the Quantic School of Business and Technology, equipping herself with the leadership skills needed to navigate today’s fast-paced business world. As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Jessica combines her financial expertise with her entrepreneurial instincts, ensuring that her businesses operate efficiently while staying true to her transparency, fairness, and social responsibility values.

Before transitioning to the UPS franchise model, Jessica had a diverse entrepreneurial career in the hospitality industry. In her twenties, she owned and operated several nightclubs and restaurants, where she learned valuable lessons in team management, customer service, and business operations. These experiences shaped her leadership style and reinforced her belief in creating welcoming environments where everyone—whether employee or customer—feels valued.

Jessica’s success is rooted in her unwavering belief that businesses should be a force for good, positively impacting their employees and the community. Whether mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs, advocating for greater diversity in business, or providing employment opportunities to those who need it most, Jessica constantly pushes the boundaries of being a successful business owner.