Leonard Lauder, the visionary philanthropist and son of Estée Lauder, has passed away at the age of 92. He was instrumental in transforming his family’s cosmetics business into a global powerhouse, expanding its reach and brand portfolio significantly. His legacy extends beyond business, encompassing profound contributions to art and medical research.
A legacy of global expansion
Leonard Lauder formally joined the family business in 1958, and over six decades, he played a pivotal role in its transformation. Under his leadership, Estée Lauder Cos. evolved from a small collection of products sold in the US to a multi-brand global giant with products sold in approximately 150 countries and territories.
Key milestones in his career include:
- 1972-1995: Served as President of The Estée Lauder Cos.
- 1982-1999: Held the position of CEO.
- 1995-2009: Served as Chairman.
He spearheaded the launch of iconic brands such as Aramis, Clinique, and Lab Series. Lauder also remained deeply involved in the company’s acquisition strategy, bringing brands like Aveda, Bobbi Brown, Jo Malone London, and MAC into the Estée Lauder family.
Philanthropic endeavours
Beyond his business acumen, Lauder was a dedicated philanthropist, particularly in the fields of art and medical research. His notable contributions include:
- Metropolitan Museum of Art: In 2013, he pledged his 78-piece Cubist art collection, the largest single philanthropic gift in the museum’s history. He later added five more significant works.
- Leonard A. Lauder Research Center for Modern Art: He helped establish this centre at the Met to support fellowships, exhibitions, and public lectures.
- Whitney Museum of American Art: He served as chairman emeritus and a trustee from 1977 to 2011.
- Medical Research: He was a staunch supporter of the fight against diseases such as Alzheimer’s and breast cancer.
Personal life and family
Born in New York City in 1933, Lauder was a graduate of the Bronx High School of Science, the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, and the Officer Candidate School of the United States Navy. He also studied at Columbia University’s graduate school of business and served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy.
He was married to Evelyn H. Lauder, founder of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, from 1959 until her passing in 2011. In 2015, he married Judy Glickman Lauder, a philanthropist and photographer.
Lauder is survived by his wife, Judy Glickman Lauder; his sons, William P. Lauder and Gary M. Lauder; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; many stepchildren and step-grandchildren; and his brother, Ronald S. Lauder, and his family.
