empire, passed away at the age of 92 on June 15, 2025. As the son of cosmetics pioneers Estée and Joseph H. Lauder, Leonard played a pivotal role in transforming a family business into a global powerhouse . Joining the company at just 25 years old, he held various leadership positions including president, CEO, and chairman. His contributions were instrumental in establishing Estée Lauder Companies as a leader in the beauty industry.
Lauder joined his parents' company in 1958 and served as chief executive for 17 years. He was an accomplished dealmaker and bought brands including Clinique, Bobbi Brown and MAC.
"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", said Stephane de La Faverie, chief executive of Estee Lauder.
The New York-born billionaire had an estimated fortune of $10.1bn (£7.5bn), according to the 2025 Forbes rich list.
Among his many roles included serving as president for 23 years, beginning in 1972, and chief executive from 1982 to 1999. He was named chairman in 1995 and held the role until 2009, according to the company.
New York Stock Exchange at $26 a share. The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. (EL) now has a market capitalization of about $24.3 billion. According to Bloomberg’s Billionaire Index, Lauder had a personal net worth of $15.6 billion.
When asked what he would want to be remembered for during a 2020 interview Lauder replied: “He listened … and he was kind.”
Mr. Lauder believed passionately in the importance of public access to art and museums, which inspired his philosophy that the primary role of a collector was to conserve, not possess. He was a long-time supporter of the Metropolitan Museum of Art (the Met) and, in 2013, pledged his 78-piece collection of Cubist art to the museum in the largest single philanthropic gift in the Met’s history. He later added five major works to that promised gift. In concert with his Cubist collection donation, he helped establish the Leonard A. Lauder Research Center for Modern Art at the Met to support a robust program of fellowships, focused exhibitions, and public lectures. Along with his prominent presence at the Met, he also served as the Whitney Museum of American Art’s Chairman Emeritus and a trustee from 1977 to 2011. Throughout his life, he donated works of art and endowed curatorial positions and research departments to numerous institutions.
Lauder is perhaps best known for coining the "lipstick index," a concept that suggests lipstick sales can serve as an economic indicator during times of recession . This innovative idea underscored his keen understanding of consumer behavior and market trends. Beyond his corporate achievements, Leonard was also recognized for his philanthropic efforts and passion for art collecting. His legacy extends beyond cosmetics; it encompasses significant cultural contributions that will be remembered long after his passing.
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