Estee Lauder’s son – a “cosmetics industry icon” who built the make-up brand into a global powerhouse – has died aged 92.
Leonard Lauder joined his parents’ business in 1958 following a stint in the US Navy, working his way up the ranks to become president and chief executive.
“For more than six decades, Mr Lauder was a visionary and an innovator – helping transform the business,” the company said in a statement.
The entrepreneur had a key role in helping Estee Lauder shift from selling a small number of products in US stores to owning a plethora of brands internationally.
As well as launching the likes of Clinique and Aramis, Mr Lauder was described as a canny dealmaker involved in acquiring Bobbi Brown and Jo Malone London.
Leonard Lauder with Elizabeth Hurley and Estee Lauder bosses at the New York Stock Exchange in 2008. Pic: Reuters
His son William, who remains involved in the family business, said: “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.”
William Lauder, who now chairs the board of directors, added: “His impact was enormous. He believed that employees were the heart and soul of our company, and they adored him and moments spent with him.”
Leonard Lauder created the company’s first research and development laboratory – and was the “driving force” behind its expansion into Europe and Asia.
Born in New York City in 1933, estimates from Forbes suggest his net worth peaked at $25.5bn (£18.8bn) in 2021.
He served as Estee Lauder’s chief executive from 1982 to 1999 and chairman from 1995 to 2009, serving as chairman emeritus until his death.
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Leonard Lauder with Victoria Beckham at a charity event in 2017. Pic: AP
Stephane de la Faverie, the brand’s current CEO, said: “Leonard Lauder was beloved by many and will be missed tremendously.
“To our employees at The Estee 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.”
Leonard Lauder was married to Evelyn – a fellow executive who founded the Breast Cancer Research Foundation – from 1959 until her death in 2011.
He is survived by his second wife Judy, a renowned photographer, as well as his two sons, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
“Mr Lauder considered himself lucky in love and believed that lightning really could strike twice,” a statement added.
