Leonard Lauder, Estee Lauder’s Visionary Leader, Dies at 92: A Legacy of Beauty, Philanthropy, and Art
Leonard Lauder, Estee Lauder’s Visionary Leader, Dies at 92: A Legacy of Beauty, Philanthropy, and Art
Leonard Lauder, the former CEO of Estée Lauder Companies and a renowned philanthropist and art collector, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at the age of 92. His death, announced on June 15th, marks the end of an era for the global beauty giant he helped build.
More than just a businessman, Lauder was a visionary who transformed a family-run company into a global powerhouse. Joining the business in 1958, he served as CEO from 1982 to 1999, overseeing the acquisition of iconic brands like MAC, Bobbi Brown, and Aveda, solidifying Estée Lauder’s position in the cosmetics industry. His leadership extended beyond the boardroom; he established the company’s first research and development lab, laying the groundwork for future innovation.
Lauder’s impact extended far beyond the world of beauty. He and his late wife, Evelyn Lauder, a key figure in the fight against breast cancer, co-founded the Evelyn H. Lauder Breast Center at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. The pink ribbon, a ubiquitous symbol of breast cancer awareness, became a testament to their unwavering commitment to this cause.
His passion for art was equally profound. A collector of remarkable breadth and depth, Lauder amassed a vast collection, including a significant holding of Cubist art, which he later donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This generous act, described by The New York Times as “a sterling act of philanthropy,” underscores his belief in the power of art to enrich lives.
Beyond his business acumen and philanthropic endeavors, Lauder was also co-founder of the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to improving lives through research and funding.
His sons, William and Gary Lauder, each issued heartfelt statements praising their father’s legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering integrity. The Estee Lauder Companies also released a statement, calling him “a true visionary, fearless leader, and cherished friend to so many.”
Leonard Lauder’s life was a testament to the transformative power of vision, dedication, and a profound commitment to both business and humanity. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
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