A Legacy of Glamour: Leonard Lauder, Global Beauty Mogul, Passes Away at 92

Leonard Lauder, a pivotal figure in the cosmetics industry and son of Estée Lauder, has passed away at the age of 92. His extensive career began in 1958 when he joined the family business, which was then a modest enterprise with annual sales under $1 million (equivalent to about $11 million today). Under Lauder’s leadership, the company flourished, evolving into a global cosmetics titan with sales reaching $15.6 billion last year and operations in 150 countries.

Serving as chief executive for 17 years, Lauder was known for his accomplished deal-making skills, initiating the acquisitions of celebrated brands such as Clinique, Bobbi Brown, and MAC. He played a crucial role in expanding the company’s footprint into Europe and Asia, and he instigated the creation of the firm’s first research and development laboratory. Lauder led the landmark decision to take Estée Lauder public in 1995, where shares rose by 33% on the first day of trading in New York.

Even after stepping down as CEO in 1999, Lauder remained deeply connected to the brand as chairman emeritus. Upon his death, Estée Lauder expressed heartfelt condolences, acknowledging Lauder’s profound impact on the beauty industry and the company’s innovative trajectory. Tributes poured in from various sectors, highlighting his significance not just in business but also in personal relationships. Elizabeth Hurley, who modelled for Estée Lauder, affectionately referred to him as her ‘American Daddy’.

Beyond cosmetics, Lauder was a passionate art collector, promising a collection worth a billion dollars to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. He was also a dedicated advocate for cancer research, serving as the honorary chairman for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. His legacy, characterized by energy, vision, and innovation, will undoubtedly continue to resonate in the beauty industry for years to come.