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 bustling Northside business district. Over the years, Lee has built a diverse business portfolio, owning and managing a variety of establishments, including restaurants, nightclubs, and bars. She is known for her commitment to creating inclusive workplaces, consistently hiring individuals from marginalized communities, including those from the LGBTQ+ community and people seeking a second chance in life.


Lee’s success story is especially remarkable, given the personal challenges she has overcome. Deaf and a single mother of two children, Jessica has faced significant obstacles yet has consistently demonstrated resilience and determination. Her journey from immigrant to business owner has made her a role model for others, particularly those who feel underrepresented or overlooked.


Early Life and Background


Born and raised in South Korea, Jessica was instilled with a strong sense of family, tradition, and community values from an early age. These values have shaped her approach to both life and business. As a first-generation immigrant, Jessica moved to the United States with her family, facing the complexities of adapting to a new culture and language. She became the first in her family to pursue small-business ownership, determined to achieve financial independence and provide a better life for her family.


Her South Korean upbringing also emphasized the importance of hard work, respect, and perseverance—principles she continues to uphold in all her business endeavors. Despite facing the challenges of being deaf in a hearing world, Jessica never allowed her disability to define her or limit her potential. Instead, she turned it into a driving force, using her experiences to build businesses that foster inclusivity and create opportunities for others.


Education and Career Development


She pursued her higher education at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), where she studied Biochemistry, Business Law, and Accounting. She later earned an MBA from the Quantic School of Business and Technology, an online institution that caters to high-level professionals. Jessica also holds a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation, equipping her with the financial expertise that has been instrumental in her success as a business owner.


In the early stages of her career, Jessica worked as a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for startups and non-profits. During this time, she honed her skills in financial management, operations, and strategic planning. Her ability to identify business opportunities and leverage her financial knowledge helped propel her into the role of Enterprise Solutions Architect, where she provided tailored business solutions for a variety of industries.


Entrepreneurial Journey


Jessica Lee’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to her drive and vision. She is the first in her family to venture into small-business ownership, and her path has been anything but conventional. After her education, Jessica pivoted to the hospitality industry, owning and managing multiple nightclubs, bars, and restaurants in her late twenties. These businesses allowed her to refine her management skills and gain firsthand experience in the day-to-day operations of running an establishment.


In her early years as a business owner, Jessica faced the challenges of building a team and creating a work environment that embraced diversity and inclusion. She developed a reputation for hiring individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds and providing them with the opportunity to thrive. Her commitment to giving people a second chance not only fostered loyalty within her teams but also helped her build a solid customer base that appreciated her values and business philosophy.


Jessica’s entrepreneurial path took a pivotal turn when she entered the UPS franchise business. Owning and operating two UPS stores has allowed her to expand her business portfolio further, and her stores have become staples in the Northside Chicago community. As a UPS franchisee, Jessica has continued to prioritize customer service, community involvement, and employee development. Her franchise is known for offering personalized services and supporting local initiatives, further solidifying her role as a business leader committed to her community.


Business Philosophy and Community Impact


At the heart of Jessica’s business philosophy is the belief that everyone deserves an opportunity to succeed. Whether it’s an employee from the LGBTQ+ community or an individual looking to start anew, Jessica strives to create environments where all employees feel valued and respected. She fosters a culture of openness, creativity, and innovation, where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated.


Jessica’s focus on family and community stems from the lessons she learned growing up in South Korea. Despite the fast-paced and often competitive world of business, she continues to prioritize the well-being of her employees and the needs of her customers. Her success is a direct result of this balance between professional ambition and personal values.


A Legacy of Empowerment


Her story is one of perseverance, hard work, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact on the community. As a deaf entrepreneur, single mother, and advocate for marginalized groups, Jessica has proven that obstacles can be overcome with the right mindset, support, and determination. She continues to inspire other small-business owners, particularly in the Northern Illinois region, to take risks, push boundaries, and believe in themselves.


Through her businesses, Jessica has not only achieved financial independence but has also created opportunities for others to succeed. Whether it’s by hiring individuals from underrepresented communities or supporting local initiatives, Jessica Lee’s impact on the Chicago business landscape will continue to resonate for years to come.