Biography of Jamie Kern Lima: Founder & CEO of IT Cosmetics -Entrepreneur
From Denny’s Waitress to Billion-Dollar Entrepreneur: The Story of Jamie Kern Lima
Humble Beginnings and Early Life
Jamie Kern Lima's journey to success began in modest
circumstances. She worked as a waitress at Denny’s and bagged groceries at
Safeway to support herself. Despite these humble beginnings, she remained
determined to build a better future. She graduated as valedictorian from
Washington State University with a perfect 4.0 GPA, proving her dedication to
excellence early on.
Pursuing Journalism and TV News Career
Before stepping into the beauty industry, Jamie pursued a
career in journalism. She became an award-winning television news anchor, a
role that allowed her to develop confidence in front of the camera. However,
she faced a personal struggle with rosacea, a hereditary skin condition that
left her skin red and blotchy. Finding makeup that provided effective coverage
was a constant challenge, sparking an idea that would later change her life.
The Birth of IT Cosmetics
Motivated by her personal struggle, Jamie set out to create
a makeup line designed for real people with real skin concerns. She started IT
Cosmetics from her living room, developing products that provided long-lasting
coverage and skincare benefits. She poured all her time and energy into the
business, often working long hours without taking a salary for the first three
years.
Facing Rejection and Overcoming Doubts
Like many entrepreneurs, Jamie faced countless rejections
from investors and beauty retailers. Most told her that her brand wouldn’t
succeed, but she refused to give up. Despite years of self-doubt and
uncertainty, she kept pushing forward, fueled by her belief in the
effectiveness of her products and her mission to help others feel confident in
their skin.
Breakthrough with QVC
Jamie’s big break came when she landed a spot on QVC, the
home shopping network. She decided to showcase her products on real women
rather than traditional models, proving their effectiveness in real-time. Her
authenticity resonated with viewers, and IT Cosmetics sold out in just minutes.
This moment marked the turning point that would propel the brand to new
heights.
Expanding to Major Retailers
Following her success on QVC, Jamie expanded IT Cosmetics to
major retailers like Sephora, ULTA Beauty, and Macy’s. The brand quickly became
one of the best-selling beauty lines, praised for its problem-solving makeup
that combined skincare benefits with high-performance coverage.
The $1.2 Billion Acquisition by L’Oréal
In 2016, IT Cosmetics made history when it was acquired by
beauty giant L’Oréal for $1.2 billion in cash—their largest U.S. acquisition to
date. Jamie became the first woman in L’Oréal’s 100+ year history to serve as a
CEO, breaking barriers and inspiring women in business worldwide.
Biography of Jamie Kern Lima: Founder & CEO of IT Cosmetics -Entrepreneur# startup#age#net worth#investor#QVC#IT Cosmetics#Investment#Jamie Kern Lima
Stepping Down and Investing in Entrepreneurs
Jamie remained CEO for several years after the acquisition
but stepped down from day-to-day operations in 2019. She shifted her focus
toward mentoring and investing in other entrepreneurs, helping them navigate
the challenges of building successful businesses. She has since invested in
several brands, including Dutch Bros Coffee and Duckhorn Portfolio.
Recognition and Achievements
Jamie’s success has earned her widespread recognition. She
has been featured on Forbes’ list of “America’s Richest Self-Made Women” since
2017 and was named one of Goldman Sachs’ “100 Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs.”
She has also received numerous awards, including the EY Entrepreneur of the
Year Award and WWD’s 50 Most Powerful Women in Beauty.
A Passion for Empowering Women
Beyond business, Jamie is deeply committed to empowering
women. She has spoken at numerous conferences and events, sharing her story to
inspire others to believe in themselves and their dreams. Her authenticity and
willingness to discuss personal struggles, including self-doubt, have made her
a relatable and influential voice for women entrepreneurs.
Becoming an Author and Podcast Host
Jamie expanded her reach by becoming a bestselling author.
Her latest book, WORTHY, spent 14 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list.
She also launched The Jamie Kern Lima Show podcast, which quickly became the #1
self-improvement podcast in the country. Her very first guest was Oprah
Winfrey, setting the tone for the show’s inspirational mission.
Guest Appearance on Shark Tank
In 2024, Jamie was announced as a Guest Shark on Shark Tank
Season 16, where she will bring her business expertise and firsthand
entrepreneurial experience to aspiring founders. Her journey from rejection to
billion-dollar success makes her an ideal mentor for those looking to turn
their ideas into reality.
Leading Large-Scale Women’s Events
Jamie has also organized large-scale events to inspire and
uplift women. Her Becoming Unstoppable live event attracted over 260,000
participants, featuring influential figures like Oprah Winfrey, Ellen
DeGeneres, Robin Roberts, and Maria Shriver. The event reinforced her mission
to help people build self-worth and confidence.
Philanthropy and Giving Back
Jamie is a passionate philanthropist who has donated over
$40 million in products and funds to support women facing cancer. She has also
funded leadership training in over 100 prisons and shelters across the U.S. She
believes in using her success to uplift others, ensuring that her impact
extends far beyond the business world.
Legacy of Inspiration and Self-Belief
Jamie Kern Lima’s journey from a Denny’s waitress to a
self-made billionaire is a testament to resilience, belief, and perseverance.
She has shattered barriers, redefined beauty standards, and empowered countless
individuals to embrace their worth. Whether through her bestselling books,
podcast, investments, or philanthropic efforts, Jamie continues to inspire
people worldwide to dream big and never give up.
Timeline for story
1968 – Jamie Kern Lima is born.
Early Life – Works as a waitress and grocery bagger while
excelling academically.
Graduates – Earns a perfect 4.0 GPA and becomes
valedictorian at Washington State University.
Early Career – Becomes an award-winning TV news anchor.
2008 – Founds IT Cosmetics from her living room.
2011 – Lands a spot on QVC, leading to significant brand
success.
2016 – IT Cosmetics is acquired by L’Oréal for $1.2 billion.
2019 – Steps down from CEO role at IT Cosmetics, focusing on
mentoring and investments.
2020 – Featured on Forbes’ “America’s Richest Self-Made
Women” list.
2021 – Publishes WORTHY, a New York Times bestseller.
2024 – Becomes a Guest Shark on Shark Tank Season 16.
