Leonard Lauder, Esteemed Business Leader Behind Estée Lauder, Dies at 92

Leonard Lauder, the influential figure responsible for the global expansion of Estée Lauder Companies, died surrounded by family at age 92. His leadership was marked by strategic acquisitions and significant growth, furthering the brand's reach and success. Many peers and celebrities have offered tributes, reflecting on his contributions to both business and art.

Leonard Lauder, the businessman who built Estée Lauder into one of the world's biggest cosmetic makers, has died at the age of 92. Lauder joined his parents' company in 1958 and served as chief executive for 17 years, renowned for his strategic acumen in acquiring iconic brands such as Clinique, Bobbi Brown, and MAC.

Described as an "icon and pioneer" by current CEO Stephane de La Faverie, Lauder's energy and innovative vision helped shape the company which has become a household name globally. According to the 2025 Forbes rich list, he amassed a fortune estimated at $10.1 billion (£7.5 billion).

Lauder's passing on Saturday was confirmed through a statement from Estée Lauder, who noted he was surrounded by family during his final moments. Born in 1933, Leonard was the eldest son of Estée and Joseph Lauder. Before entering the family business, he served as a lieutenant in the US Navy. When he began, the company’s annual sales were less than $1 million, equating to about $11 million today. The company's transformation under his leadership was profound, culminating in $15.6 billion in sales last year, with operations spanning 150 countries.

He played a critical role in leading the firm's expansion into European and Asian markets and was the mastermind behind its first-ever research and development laboratory. In 1995, Lauder took the company public, resulting in a 33% surge in share price on its debut trading day on the New York Stock Exchange. Although he stepped down as chief executive in 1999, he continued to play an active role in shaping the company as chairman emeritus until his death.

Tributes have poured in from fellow business leaders and celebrities alike. Elizabeth Hurley, who got her first modelling assignment with Estée Lauder, referred to him as her "American Daddy" via Instagram and expressed her disbelief at a world without him. Steve Forbes, editor-in-chief at Forbes Media, remarked on Lauder's zest for life, stating, "His passing is the world's loss." Former New York mayor, Mike Bloomberg, emphasized Lauder's enduring legacy for future generations.

Beyond the world of cosmetics, Leonard Lauder had a deep passion for the arts, famously donating his billion-dollar collection of Cubist artwork to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York in 2013. He also dedicated efforts to breast cancer research, serving as the honorary chairman of the board of directors at the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.