Yesterday, Estee Lauder announced that Leonard A. Lauder, the esteemed Chairman Emeritus of The Estée Lauder Companies, passed away on June 14 at the age of 92, leaving behind a profound legacy in both the beauty industry and philanthropy.
Born in 1933 in New York City to Estée and Joseph H. Lauder, Leonard was destined to become a pivotal figure in the family business. Educated at the Bronx High School of Science and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, he also served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy, which honored him with the Distinguished Alumni Award.
Joining Estée Lauder in 1958, Leonard embarked on a transformative journey that spanned over six decades. As President from 1972 to 1995 and CEO from 1982 to 1999, he reshaped the company into a global leader, introducing brands like Aramis, Clinique, and La Mer. A legendary brand builder, Mr. Lauder led the launch of many brands including Aramis, Clinique, and Lab Series, among others. Until his death, he remained deeply involved in the company’s acquisition strategy, including the acquisitions of Aveda, Bobbi Brown, Jo Malone London, La Mer, and M∙A∙C.
Throughout his tenure at the company, Mr. Lauder consistently challenged the status quo, developing and implementing innovative sales and marketing programs that revolutionized the beauty industry.
He created the company’s first research and development laboratory, brought in professional management at every level, and was the driving force behind The Estée Lauder Companies’ international expansion, helping to increase the company’s sales and profits exponentially. His visionary leadership extended beyond business, emphasizing philanthropy and employee welfare.
Speaking for The Estée Lauder Companies, President and Chief Executive Officer Stéphane de La Faverie said, “Leonard Lauder was beloved by many and will be missed tremendously. To our employees at The Estée Lauder Companies, he was an inspiration and a champion. To the industry, he was an icon and pioneer, earning respect worldwide. His energy and vision helped shape our company and will continue to do so for generations to come. He was a deeply compassionate leader who cared profoundly about every person in the company. I feel privileged to have worked with Leonard, who has been the best mentor I could have dreamt to learn from. He will be remembered by all of us.”
During his many years as Chairman Emeritus, Mr. Lauder was closely involved in the business and day-to-day operations of the company and was a constant fixture at The Estée Lauder Companies’ global headquarters in New York and at our stores and counters across the globe until the time of his death.
“Throughout his life, my father worked tirelessly to build and transform the beauty industry, pioneering many of the innovations, trends, and best practices that are foundational to the industry today,” said William P. Lauder, son and Chair, Board of Directors, The Estée Lauder Companies.
