A Visionary Leader Redefining the Corporate World
Carol B. Tomé, born Carol Louise Buchenroth on January 8, 1957, has emerged as one of the most influential and dynamic leaders in the business world today. As the Chief Executive Officer of United Parcel Service (UPS), a role she assumed in June 2020, Tomé is celebrated for her groundbreaking leadership and innovative strategies. Her career, which spans several decades and multiple industries, is marked by an unparalleled track record of success, particularly at The Home Depot, where she played a pivotal role in transforming the company from 1995 to 2019. Her contributions have been widely recognized, earning her multiple accolades as one of the most powerful women in business.
Roots of Resilience and Ambition: Early Life and Education
Born in Jackson, Wyoming, Carol B. Tomé grew up in a rugged landscape that shaped her resilience and work ethic. Raised in a family that championed hard work, independence, and resourcefulness, Tomé had what she describes as “an unbelievable childhood,” learning skills such as hunting, fishing, cooking, and sewing—all while absorbing life lessons on self-sufficiency. Her father, a community banker, inspired her early fascination with finance and laid the foundation for her future career.
Driven by a desire to forge her own path, Tomé earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Wyoming and went on to complete a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Denver. It was here that her ambition crystallized—to follow in her father’s footsteps, not just as a banker, but as a transformative leader in the world of business.
The Early Career: Building a Foundation in Finance
Carol Tomé began her professional journey with a fierce determination to excel in finance. Starting as a commercial lender at the United Bank of Denver (now Wells Fargo), she quickly made a name for herself with her sharp analytical skills and strategic mindset. Her talent caught the attention of the Johns-Manville Corporation, where she became the Director of Banking, refining her expertise in financial management. She further cemented her reputation as a financial strategist at Riverwood International Corporation (now part of Graphic Packaging), where she served as Vice President and Treasurer, managing complex global financial operations.
Defining Her Career at The Home Depot: From Finance to Fame
In 1995, Tomé took a bold step by joining The Home Depot, the largest home improvement retailer in the United States, as Vice President and Treasurer. Her timing was impeccable; The Home Depot was in the midst of an aggressive expansion into Mexico and needed an astute financial leader to guide it through this critical period. Tomé's financial acumen and strategic vision quickly propelled her to the position of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in 2001.
As CFO, she steered the company through unprecedented growth, expanding from 400 stores to over 2,200 locations and pushing revenue close to $100 billion. Her leadership was instrumental during the 2008-09 financial and housing crisis, where she implemented strategic cost-management initiatives and drove operational efficiencies. By the time she retired in 2019, The Home Depot’s stock price had surged by over 450%, a testament to her ability to navigate challenging times and deliver remarkable results.
Breaking New Ground at UPS: A Historic Appointment
After a brief retirement, Carol Tomé was tapped by UPS to bring her leadership prowess to the global logistics giant, where she had already served as a board member since 2003. In March 2020, she was named CEO-elect, becoming the first female CEO in the company’s 113-year history. Officially taking the reins on June 1, 2020, Tomé immediately set to work, focusing on operational efficiency, digital transformation, and customer-centric strategies.
Her leadership at UPS has been marked by decisive actions and innovative approaches, particularly in navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a surge in e-commerce deliveries. Under her guidance, UPS expanded its global logistics capabilities and strengthened its market position. In 2023, she earned a total compensation of $23.4 million, with a CEO-to-median worker pay ratio of 436-to-1, reflecting her high-impact role and the immense value she brings to the company.
A Force Beyond the Boardroom: Community Involvement and Recognition
Carol Tomé’s influence extends far beyond the boardroom. She has served on the board of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta and has been actively involved with The Committee of 200, a prestigious organization of the world’s most successful women leaders. Her commitment to community service is evident in her roles with the Atlanta Botanical Garden, The Business Council, and the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, among others. Tomé has also been a trustee of Grady Memorial Hospital and participated in the International Business Council of the World Economic Forum.
Her remarkable contributions have not gone unnoticed. She has been named multiple times to Forbes' list of The World's 100 Most Powerful Women and has consistently appeared among the Top 50 Most Powerful Women in Business by Fortune magazine. In 2021, she was honored on the inaugural Forbes 50 Over 50 list, celebrating her as a leader who continues to break barriers and redefine success in her field. In 2024, she was inducted as a Georgia Trustee, a prestigious accolade given to individuals who exemplify the values of leadership, achievement, and public service.
A Legacy of Leadership and Inspiration
Carol B. Tomé’s legacy is a testament to the power of determination, vision, and strategic thinking. As one of the few female CEOs at a Fortune 500 company, she continues to break new ground, inspiring countless women and young professionals to aim high and lead with confidence. Her leadership style—strategic, data-driven, yet deeply empathetic—reflects her ability to balance operational excellence with a focus on people. From her humble beginnings in Wyoming to leading one of the world’s largest logistics companies, Tomé’s journey is a powerful narrative of perseverance, innovation, and transformative impact.ReadMore
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