Leonard Lauder, the driving force behind Estée Lauder’s transformation into a global cosmetics powerhouse, passed away at the age of 92.
Joining his parents’ company in 1958, Lauder served as CEO for 17 years, skillfully steering its growth through strategic acquisitions of iconic brands including Clinique, Bobbi Brown, and MAC.
“He was a visionary leader and pioneer, earning global respect. His dynamism and foresight profoundly shaped our company and will continue to inspire us for generations,” said Stéphane de La Faverie, Estée Lauder’s current CEO.
The New York native amassed a considerable fortune, estimated at $10.1 billion (£7.5 billion) according to the 2025 Forbes list.
Lauder passed away peacefully on Saturday surrounded by his family, as announced by Estée Lauder in an official statement.
Born in 1933, he was the eldest son of Estée and Joseph Lauder. Prior to joining the family business, he served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy.
Upon his entry, the company’s annual sales were under $1 million—approximately $11 million in today’s value. It has since blossomed into a global cosmetics giant, operating in 150 countries with sales exceeding $15.6 billion last year.
Lauder spearheaded the company’s expansion into European and Asian markets and established its first research and development laboratory.
He successfully took the company public in 1995, witnessing a remarkable 33% surge in share price on its New York Stock Exchange debut.
Stepping down as CEO in 1999, Lauder remained actively involved as chairman emeritus until his passing.
Tributes have poured in from celebrities and business leaders alike.
Elizabeth Hurley, whose early modeling career began with the company, shared on Instagram: “I called him my American Daddy, and I can’t imagine a world without him.”
Steve Forbes, editor-in-chief of Forbes Media, stated that Lauder “lived life to the fullest, and his passing is a profound loss for the world.”
“His legacy will resonate for generations to come,” remarked Mike Bloomberg, multi-billionaire and former New York City mayor.
Beyond business, Lauder was a passionate art collector, donating his billion-dollar Cubist collection to New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art in 2013.
He was also a dedicated advocate for cancer research, serving as honorary chairman of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation’s board of directors.
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