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Retail News: Borsheims CEO Karen Goracke Honored at Tribute to Women June 13, 2018 (0 comments)
Omaha, NE—Karen Goracke, president and CEO of Borsheims, was named one of 10 outstanding women in Omaha by the Women’s Center for Advancement, at its annual Tribute to Women luncheon on Tuesday, June 12. Goracke (second from right) was chosen for the impact she’s made in the Greater Omaha area, her demonstrated commitment to empowering women and children to lead self-determined lives, and for continuously going above and beyond the call of duty.
Goracke was nominated by her colleagues at Borsheims, who felt that her inspiring story needed to be shared with women at all stages of their careers. “Karen’s non-traditional path to CEO and the success she has had leading Borsheims is why she should be nominated,” Adrienne Fay, director of marketing, said. “Her philosophy of balancing work, family, and the many demands placed on women make her a prime Tribute to Women honoree.”
Starting as sales associate at Borsheims upon finishing college in 1988, Ms. Goracke quickly worked her way up in the company. She was promoted to inventory supervisor when Warren Buffett purchased Borsheims in 1989, and was tasked with creating Borsheims’ first controlled inventory system. She continued her climb at Borsheims until 1998, when she put her professional career on hold to stay home with her growing family. After several years at home with three sons, she returned in 2004 as women’s jewelry buyer, moving up through several other positions until Buffett named her president and CEO in 2013, following former president Susan Jacques’ appointment to lead Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
Goracke now serves on numerous boards and committees in both Omaha and in the jewelry industry. As her husband, family, and extended family looked on, she was honored alongside nine other Omaha women for their achievements and their dedication to bettering the lives of women and children in the Omaha community.
Karen Goracke celebrates with her family. She resumed her successful career after taking time off to stay home while her sons were young.