Courtesy of Seattle Chocolate Company.Sometimes it takes an earthquake to shake things up – literally.
At the time, Jean was 41 years old, the mom of two young children and a former Microsoft employee who specialized in communications and marketing. But in 2002, with no C-suite experience, she stepped into the role of CEO, just as her daughter, Ellie was heading off to kindergarten. Jean and Ellie are also proving you can do well, while also doing good: Seattle Chocolate Company donates 10 percent of its net profits toa non-profit aiming to inspire and embolden young girls through mentorships and educational programs. Jean also founded jcoco in 2012 under the Seattle Chocolate umbrella, which focuses on using some of its profits to feed hungry families. The company has donated nearly 4 million meals to families across the U.S.
Jean now leads a team of 75 employees, 80 percent of whom are women. That, of course, includes her daughter, Ellie.