From navy lieutenant to chief executive officer to chairman emeritus, Leonard A. Lauder had many titles during his legendary life. But as tributes poured in to honor one of the masterminds of the modern-day beauty industry, who passed away on Saturday evening at age 92, it’s clear that for most he will be best remembered as the ultimate mentor, friend and adviser.
Here, listed alphabetically, the family and friends who worked closely with Lauder remember the once-in-a-generation leader, philanthropist and collector.
Jerrod Blandino and Jeremy Johnson, cofounders, TooFaced and Polite Society: Leonard Lauder was not only a visionary in the cosmetics industry, but also a remarkable human being whose kindness and support left a lasting impact on all of us. We are deeply saddened by his passing, but forever grateful for the wisdom, warmth and friendship he shared with us during our journey with Too Faced under the Estée Lauder companies. He was an icon, a legend in the beauty world who will most certainly live on in our hearts.
Pete Born, former executive editor, beauty, WWD: Leonard was the ultimate people person. He put as much energy into developing people as he did products. When I asked him why he gave his Cubist art collection to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, he said it was because he wanted a gift not only for the museum, but for the people of New York City. His particular point of pride was being called the chief teaching officer of the company. The thing that made him the happiest was passing on wisdom. To the end, he was teaching his marketing class to his up-and-coming executives even recently. When I had lunch with him two weeks ago, he mentioned his class. I reminded him I had tried getting to the class and he wouldn’t let me! He just smiled.
Tory Burch: Leonard was a dear friend and trusted adviser for many years. I deeply admired his brilliance and vision, and I will miss him greatly.
Robin Burns-McNeill, cofounder and chairman, Battalure Beauty: As CEO of the Estée Lauder brand, Leonard was an extraordinary mentor of mine, but also much more… he was a visionary leader, whose wisdom was matched only by his deep humanity. Thoughtful, kind and unfailingly respectful to everyone he met, he inspired by example and left a lasting impact on all of us who had the privilege to know him.

Andrew Burnstine, associate professor of marketing at Lynn University: My grandmother, Martha Phillips, founder of Martha, knew Leonard since he was a child. She often recalled seeing Estée Lauder in the 1930s when Estée was just starting her beauty business, selling products in New York hair salons with a young Leonard in tow. Throughout the years, Martha and Leonard maintained a connection, frequently discussing business strategies and innovations. Leonard was so much like his mother, Estée, Martha would often say, someone who was innovative, always thinking out of the box. If there was something new on the horizon in the beauty field, Leonard was always one step ahead of the crowd.
Rose Marie Bravo: Leonard was a man for all seasons and he was there for all of the seasons of my life. I saw him a couple of weeks ago and we realized we had known each other for 50 years. He was a legend, a giant in our industry, a strategist, a visionary, a creator, a leader, a treasured friend. He was a family company man. They were indistinguishable — he was passionate about both and there for both.
Everything Estée Lauder did was first-class and so many of us learned from every aspect — leadership skills to merchandising to marketing. We all had exposure to him because he was one of those people who never thought about hierarchy. Whether you were a buyer or the president of the store, you had a relationship with Leonard.
Once you were in his orbit, he never let you go. When I became CEO of Burberry, I thought I was done with department stores and beauty. No! Leonard visited me every time he was in London. He never let you go and always stayed in touch.
I’ve always said the beauty business was the best learning you could have and the head teacher in the head school was Leonard Lauder.
Bobbi Brown, founder, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics and Jones Road Beauty: Leonard was my mentor, friend and trusted adviser and I’m gutted by this loss. But I also feel incredibly grateful for this mensch of a man who taught me everything I know about growing and nurturing a brand. He believed in me more than I believed in myself sometimes. He gave me permission to just be me and encouraged me to trust my gut and never ask permission — only forgiveness. I put that to the test when my husband Steven and I went ahead and built the first Bobbi Brown Cosmetics retail store in Montclair, N.J. We didn’t tell anyone we were doing it but when it was done, I asked Leonard to come see it and give us his blessing. He walked through the door, looked around and smiled that mischievous smile. I instantly knew he was proud of me, which is all I ever wanted.

I had a three-hour-long lunch with Leonard a couple years ago. We hadn’t seen each other since I had left Bobbi Brown Cosmetics in 2017, and I was nervous. But within minutes, we fell into an easy conversation between two friends. The love and admiration I felt for him at our first meeting nearly three decades earlier was stronger than ever. And he still wanted to talk business! He asked me about Jones Road — I told him everything about it — the growth we were seeing and the stores we were opening. And again, he told me how proud he was of me, and that was all I ever wanted. Thank you, Leonard.
Robin Coe Hutshing, cofounder, Fred Segal Beauty: For reasons unknown, Leonard Lauder took an active interest in me and my sister Jennifer as we were instinctually innovating the total experience of shopping for beauty and fragrance at our store in Fred Segal. We are forever grateful for his unwavering support and advice, which played a pivotal role in any success we had. I always told him I had an invisible bracelet that said, “What Would Leonard Do?” to help through any quandary. It’s ironically sad that the father figure of our industry has left us on Father’s Day. He will be remembered always.
John Demsey, former executive group president, the Estée Lauder Cos.: Leonard Lauder was the most brilliant and cultured man I ever have met. I had the honor of working for his family business and subsequent public company for 32 years. I loved both he and Evelyn and together with their family they created the greatest prestige beauty company of all time. He leaves a legacy of vision, creativity, passion, humanity and kindness. We would not have the beauty industry we have today without the foundation he created for over 60 years. All of us who had the gift of being able to work and learn from him will continue to be inspired by his legacy, leadership and mentorship, and strive to keep his spirit alive.

William Dillard II, chairman of the board and chief executive officer, Dillard’s Inc.: Leonard is a good friend, and we will miss him.
Annalise Fard, senior director of beauty, home, fine jewelry and watches, Harrods: Leonard Lauder was a visionary leader, a true gentleman and a dear friend. Harrods held a special place in Mr. Lauder’s heart, and he held a special place in ours. More than 60 years ago, his mother, Estée, chose Harrods as the first home for her brand outside the U.S. Mr. Lauder was instrumental in bringing that vision to life and that special connection between Estée Lauder and Harrods has continued through his dedication and care. He understood the power of bringing exceptional products and services to new audiences and the importance of building relationships based on trust, excellence and respect. Whenever he visited London, he made it a point to come to the store to meet all of the Estée Lauder Cos. brand consultants. He listened closely and treated everyone with genuine kindness and respect. He was full of wisdom, sharp wit and warmth. His visits were eagerly anticipated by everyone because he took the time to connect with people and make them feel valued.
Michelle Feeney, founder and chief executive officer, Floral Street: Leonard and ELC changed the course of my life. To me, my 11 years there were an Oxford degree, a master’s and a PhD in the building of global beauty brands. “Good work gets rewarded with more work” was one of his phrases, and he demanded excellence at all times. He loved healthy competition between “sister brands.” Equally, when a brand was not doing so well, it was the job of “the successful sister” to deliver more to help the other one out. On brand and product, my mantra from Leonard was “remember just when you are tired of hearing something, someone is hearing it for the first time.” It was an illustration of how to stay true to brand values.
Dario Ferrari, founder and president, Intercos Group: Leonard was more than a legendary figure in the beauty industry — he was a dear friend and an extraordinary human being. His vision, intellect and generosity shaped not only an iconic company, but also the lives of so many of us who had the privilege to know him. I will always cherish our conversations — full of wisdom, humor and warmth. Leonard had that rare ability to make you feel seen, valued and inspired. His legacy goes far beyond business; it lives in the culture he built, in the people he mentored, and in the deep kindness he showed to those around him. I will miss him immensely.
Tom Ford: I first met Leonard socially in the 1980s. I was immediately drawn to him. Obviously, I knew of his incredible business acumen but as a human being, he was warm, caring and had enormous empathy which was evident in his involvement with charitable organizations. When I launched my fragrance and cosmetics business, there was no other company I would have considered partnering with other than Estée Lauder. This was to a large degree because of my faith in Leonard. Leonard understood luxury, he understood how to build a business, we shared the same passion and drive for perfection. He was also a dear friend, and I will miss him terribly.
Fabrizio Freda, former president and CEO, The Estée Lauder Cos.: Leonard A. Lauder was a brilliant visionary with an unwavering passion for the company he helped build. His legacy as a leader, mentor and cherished friend is profound. For more than six decades he inspired the company with his energy, insight and charisma. As a teacher, Leonard didn’t just impart knowledge, he ignited curiosity and inspired excellence in everyone he met. I was fortunate to learn not only from his expertise, but also from his boundless creativity, dedication and true joy in creating beloved products for generations of consumers. He will be greatly missed. His legacy and impact will shine for many years to come.

Michael Gould, former chairman and CEO, Bloomingdale’s: Leonard was an incredible friend for 44 years. It’s hard to describe the richness of our friendship. We could talk about anything — politics, art, religion, life. We had an enormous business, but it was a friendship that transcended business. I adored Leonard.
Lynne Greene, former group president, the Estée Lauder Cos.: He knew the special DNA of every single brand in the corporate portfolio, which was, in and of itself, remarkable, but he could magically take that understanding, and in five minutes, add a suggestion that added millions of dollars to the idea. When he leaned forward in his chair and offered his well-known and sought-after blessing of “I love it!”, you exhaled and marched off to the market with robust confidence. REMARKABLE, BRILLIANT AND KIND. That’s how I remember Leonard Lauder.
Gilbert Harrison, chairman, Harrison Group: Leonard was a giant among men. I knew him for over 40 years. The way he worked was strong and effective and he built an incredible company from his mother’s kitchen. He always had a smile. He loved life. He wrote the preface for my book “Deal Junkie” in a most incredible way. That was Leonard. There have been few like him. He will be missed.
Kilian Hennessy, founder and creative director of Kilian Paris: I will always remember the first time I met Leonard. We were in pre-acquisition of Kilian Paris by the Estée Lauder Cos. He walked straight to me as I was waiting in the reception area. He already knew everything about me! My past. The brand results. Everything!
Nicolas Hieronimus, CEO, L’Oréal: As CEO of L’Oréal, it is with a heavy heart and profound respect that I acknowledge the passing of Leonard Lauder. He was a true giant in our industry, a visionary leader whose impact resonated far beyond the walls of the Estée Lauder Cos. His pioneering spirit shaped the beauty landscape as we know it, and his influence will continue to inspire generations to come. He was a formidable competitor, whose wisdom and insights I deeply valued.
Tommy Hilfiger: Needless to say, I’m very sad. Leonard was a father figure to me. We were very close friends for almost 40 years. He was an amazing mentor to me throughout the years. Tommy Hilfiger was the first license Estée Lauder ever had. We built an incredible fragrance business over the years, beginning with Tommy and Tommy Girl. After the success of those two, many more fragrances were launched. It was such an exciting opportunity to work with such a phenomenal family business. Leonard taught me a lot about art over the years. He was the consummate gentleman, and Evelyn was also an unforgettable friend. Words cannot describe how much I will miss him.

Jo Horgan, founder and co-CEO, Mecca: Leonard Lauder was the very best of mentors to me and to so many beauty entrepreneurs — he used his extraordinary foresight and uncanny understanding of the industry to seed an idea, point the way and clear the path, knowing where it would lead to way before any of us had caught up. He not only shaped Estée Lauder Cos. into a global powerhouse, he also crafted the future of so many of the beauty world’s entrepreneurial success stories thanks to his incredible generosity of spirit. Mecca wouldn’t be the company it is today without his wise counsel and unwavering support. Back in 2000, he came to Australia, visited a tiny Mecca store and saw what no one else imagined possible, and over the past 25 years he has helped shape that into a reality. He saw opportunities and then he would help you seize them — through introductions to his vast network, by clearing obstacles as and when needed and by giving such sage advice along the way. I will be forever grateful for his brilliant guidance, his all-encompassing encouragement and his steadfast support. I couldn’t have wished for a better mentor or friend.
Jane Hertzmark Hudis, chief brand officer, The Estée Lauder Cos.: Leonard was an industry champion, a brand champion and a people champion. If he believed in you, you could go to the moon. Leonard was passionate, driven and indefatigable. He pushed us hard, then always asked us to do more. He wanted to win, but his first love was his people. He set the example to be kind, generous and to always say thank-you. He has instilled those values in all of us as we move forward honoring his legacy.
Elizabeth Hurley, global ambassador, The Estée Lauder Companies Breast Cancer Campaign: I’m devastated to hear about the passing of my beloved friend and mentor, the remarkable Leonard Lauder. Since welcoming me into the Estée Lauder family in 1995, Leonard remained a beacon of constant love and support. I used to call him my American father and I can’t imagine a world without him. We last spoke a few weeks ago, when Leonard called to congratulate me on entering my 30th year with the Estée Lauder Cos. A truly kind, endlessly charming and unbelievably intelligent man… I shall cherish our memories for the rest of my life.

John Idol, chairman and CEO, Capri Holdings: Leonard was a true icon of the fashion and beauty industry. His vision for product innovation was unparalleled. He always showed the greatest respect for everyone he came in contact with.
Carlotta Jacobson, president, CEW: Leonard had a deep understanding of people — and a genuine appreciation for how differently we each approach our work, our goals and our contributions. He once offered an observation that beautifully captured the distinct ways men and women navigate challenges. “If you tell a man he has to get to the top of the mountain, he’ll stop everything and run straight to the top. But if you tell a woman she has to get to the top, before she even starts, she’s going to develop a plan that will get her there faster.” It was his way of saying: There is not just one path to success — and no one way to lead or excel. Leonard saw strength in difference. He valued diverse ways of thinking and had a rare ability to recognize and nurture talent in others.
Donna Karan: Leonard was larger than life in every aspect. I loved Leonard, I really did. The thing about Leonard was his humanness, his kindness, his caring — not about business but about your life. I just loved him as a person. He was kind and he was sweet. There was not a person who didn’t love him and wouldn’t be there to support him.

Poppy King, founder, Lipstick Queen: Very few people knew that Leonard was the original silent backer of Lipstick Queen. One day he was at my tiny office, when we were still in start-up mode. I was showing him something I was about to launch called Oxymoron that was a lip product that started matte and became a gloss. It had wonderful Beardsley-inspired artwork on the packaging and a deeply intellectual few lines of copy about the riddle that is an oxymoron. Leonard looked at it, read it and placed it admiringly on the table and with a broad smile took my hand and said, “Poppy, it’s just wonderful, but you do realize you’re talking to yourself!” We both laughed hysterically. Leonard Lauder was once in a century and I’m glad it was mine.
Michael Kors: Leonard lived his life full of curiosity and passion, and that never waned. From lunching with him at Michael’s where he would give you advice on the customer and admonish you for eating french fries, to the familial feeling you had when you went to his home for the holidays, to his never-ending curiosity and joy in meeting the customer and talking to sales associates — something he learned from his mother Estée — he was a true titan, but a titan with a heart.
I have spent my career doing personal appearances and trunk shows to stay in touch with the customer, and this was something always validated by Leonard. In 2007, my husband Lance and I were on Thanksgiving vacation in Honolulu when we ran into Leonard and his wife Evelyn who were frolicking in the hotel pool like teenagers. We went out for an early dinner with them and towards the end, Leonard said, “I’m getting up very early tomorrow morning to stop by the stores and see what’s going on. It’s going to be a total surprise. Why don’t you come with me?” We were leaving that day so I couldn’t join him, but I remember being amazed that even on a family vacation, he went to see the stores and wanted to see what was happening at the counter. That curiosity was something he never lost, no matter how many years he’d been in the industry or how successful he was. The phrase “unicorn” is not one I use lightly, but Leonard was a unicorn. Tough but kind, devoted, smart and always incredibly supportive.

Stéphane de La Faverie, president and CEO, The Estée Lauder Cos.: Leonard Lauder was beloved by many and will be missed tremendously. To our employees at The Estée Lauder Companies, he was an inspiration and a champion. To the industry, 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. He was a deeply compassionate leader who cared profoundly about every person in the company. I feel privileged to have worked with Leonard, who has been the best mentor I could have dreamt to learn from. He will be remembered by all of us.
Fred Langhammer, former chief executive officer, the Estée Lauder Cos.: I had the incredible good fortune to work closely with Leonard for 35 years, 20 of those as COO and later CEO of The Estée Lauder Companies. In that time, it was easy to develop a deep admiration for him; he was the engine of the company, his energy was unmatched and set the pace for us all to follow. Leonard treated all his employees with such regard and joy, we all felt as though we were members of his family. He was always ready to lean in, Leonard never asked his team to do anything he wasn’t willing to do himself. He was not afraid to take risks, and he had an innate sense for identifying talent and promoting across geographies and diversities. He had the most keen creative eye, reminding us always that the key to success for a prestige brand was creativity and distribution discipline. He grew our company into an international powerhouse and was a force in reshaping the prestige cosmetic industry. His legacy remains in the thousands of current and former ELC employees who have taken to social media these past days to share their grief and love for all he meant to us. His famous blue notes will remain with me as an enduring reminder of the decades of wonderful memories.
Gary M. Lauder, member, board of directors, The Estée Lauder Cos.: My father was a remarkable man, a leader in business, a devoted philanthropist, and a deeply loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His energy, sharp intellect and generous spirit touched the lives of so many across the world. To me, he was also a constant source of encouragement, wisdom and love. His legacy is vast, not only in the beauty industry but in the countless lives improved by his charitable efforts and his passionate commitment to the arts, education and health care. He was not only well-respected and admired, but he was also adored by his employees and colleagues. This affection stands out for me. While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate his extraordinary life, his lasting contributions, and the values he instilled in all of us: integrity, curiosity and the importance of giving back. He will be missed more than words can express.

Ronald S. Lauder, chairman, Clinique Laboratories: Leonard was a wonderful brother and a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, colleague and friend. But his legacy extends far beyond being the heart of our family. His impact will be felt for generations to come thanks to his tireless philanthropy, advocacy and creativity in tackling some of the world’s greatest challenges. The number of lives he touched and positively impacted across all his endeavors is immeasurable. His passion and generosity have inspired us all, and there are no words to express how much he will be missed.
William P. Lauder, chair, board of directors, The Estée Lauder Cos.: Throughout his life, my father worked tirelessly to build and transform the beauty industry, pioneering many of the innovations, trends and best practices that are foundational to the industry today. He was the most charitable man I have ever known, believing that art and education belonged to everyone, and championing the fight against diseases such as Alzheimer’s and breast cancer. Above all, my father was a man who practiced kindness with everyone he met. His impact was enormous. He believed that employees were the heart and soul of our company, and they adored him and moments spent with him. His warmth and thoughtfulness made an imprint on our company, the industry, and, of course, our family.

Ralph Lauren: Leonard led a life of honor and integrity. He was always there for me, and I admired his great energy and passion for his work. But most of all, I admired that his family came first. I am forever grateful for his advice and his example.
Linda Levy, president, The Fragrance Foundation: Leonard Lauder was an extraordinary leader, teacher and icon in the world of fragrance, beauty and philanthropy. The Fragrance Foundation proudly recognized Leonard for his distinguished accomplishments both as the Hall of Fame Honoree in 1990 and as the inaugural honoree in 2000 for the first ever Circle of Champions.
While Leonard was a brilliant businessman who raised the bar for all of us, it was his humanity that had the greatest impact on the world. My top Leonard lessons are these: Leonard always stressed that it was not what we accomplished on our résumés but how we made people feel. Leonard taught me that it was more important not to be the first in business, but to be the best. Leonard taught me not to look at the competition, but to look forward to where we are going to reach a goal.
Frédéric Malle, founder, Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle: I first met Leonard in Vancouver. We were stuck in a room with many members of the industry (attending a new store opening) and he crossed the room, introduced himself and told me that I might have saved the perfume industry. I was so starstruck and proud of that compliment. Nothing could have given me more joy. A few years later, we had a conversation that was supposed to last an hour, which lasted almost three! During this unforgettable meeting of the minds, Leonard with his irresistible charm and intelligence made me feel a sense of belonging and generated my desire to work with him.
Jo Malone, founder, Jo Malone London and Jo Loves: Leonard Lauder was one in a million. Wherever you go in the world there will always be a story of how he touched people’s lives both from a business perspective and personally. My story was both, but I’m alive today because of his kindness and compassion. Thank you, Leonard, your entrepreneurial spirit and passion for the beauty industry have changed many destinies and your legacy will continue to live on in the next generation.

Michael McCarty, proprietor, and Steve Millington, general manager, Michael’s: I met Leonard in 1979 when I opened Michael’s in Santa Monica, Calif. He was out often, checking on the realm, but in particular, we are a restaurant known for our artwork and his best friend was the chairman of the L.A. County Art Museum board of trustees. They would always come in and that’s how we got New York Michael’s teed up.
Leonard was the king. He would come into the restaurant and hold court. I remember the days when everyone would have lunch with him — Cindy Leive [former editor in chief of Glamour], Rose Marie Bravo, Glenda Bailey [former editor in chief of Harper’s Bazaar]. He was so distinguished and eloquent. He looked you in the eyes. He spoke to you — he was never grandstanding or acting in a manner like a king. He was cordial and kind and warm and dressed beautifully. Everybody at Michael’s loved Leonard.
Robert Mettler, former CEO, Macy’s West: I met Leonard on July 2, 1962. I had just started working after graduating from university and his role at the company was in sales. He grew up in a household where the business was often discussed — it wasn’t something that he learned. It was ingrained. And he was such a good listener, too. He was a great selector and an amazing trainer of people. He was such a down-to-earth guy who could tell you things that were pertinent to your business, but also pertinent to personal and life issues. One time he and Evelyn were going to visit the boys at camp in Maine. Leonard went into one of our stores and wrote me a long note about what was wrong in an area that was not my responsibility. He taught me all areas reflect the customer’s view and I should make it known to people who would fix it. He was as much a student as a teacher. When I was sitting shiva for my mother in New Haven, Conn., I had been living in Texas so didn’t have time or know of places. Unknown to me he sent a caterer truck from New York. He was there for me always. I don’t think I ever met a more true friend.
Marc Metrick, CEO, Saks Global: Leonard was a trailblazer in the beauty industry, transforming his family business into a global powerhouse. He understood the power of relationships and was an incredible partner to Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman for many decades. I met him early on in my tenure leading Saks Fifth Avenue. He knew more about our company than anyone I’d ever met. He embodied accountability and, in turn, ensured all who worked with him were accountable for doing what needed to be done. Always ready with a story, advice or a joke, he was an unstoppable force in business and, even more admirably, in his philanthropic efforts in education and art, as well as in combating breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Our industry has lost a true legend and visionary — he will be greatly missed by all of us who were inspired by his visionary spirit and extraordinary legacy.

Pete Nordstrom, co-CEO, Nordstrom: Leonard was one of my all-time favorite people in our industry and a genuine legend. Despite being a pivotal member of the founding family and a major force behind the growth of the multibillion-dollar Estée Lauder company, Leonard remained remarkably approachable and down-to-earth. He was always so kind to me and generous with his time. He had a special quality of being able to connect with everyone and make them feel good — our conversation on the Nordy Pod is one of my favorites. He was always a champion of his people. Everyone in the industry, particularly the folks on the sales floor, felt valued and appreciated by Leonard. His store visits were legendary. My thoughts and condolences are with his family. He leaves behind an incredible legacy.
Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones, former chairman and chief executive officer, L’Oréal: I had a great deal of respect for Leonard Lauder and was saddened by the news of his passing. Behind the handsome features, impeccable manners and the natural elegance, he was a fierce competitor and a steady negotiator. Despite our differences, I enjoyed our occasional encounters and wished him well.
Chantal Roos, cofounder, Roos & Roos: Leonard Lauder was such a legend in the cosmetics industry. Thanks to him, the Estée Lauder group became a true empire. But for him, the most important was kindness to people. I met him first in Paris and then in his house in New York, because he wanted to hire me. But I was not ready to live in the U.S. with a young daughter. Then I met him when I was traveling, for example, in Asia. He took a lot of time to talk to people working for his brand behind the counter. I could see how all the saleswomen were so pleased. Leonard told me that when he was back to his office, he wrote messages to all of them (which took 30 percent of his time). My condolences go to the Lauder family.
Robert Salmon, former vice chairman, L’Oréal: When I was in New York, I had the privilege to be received by Leonard and Evelyn quite often. I have a very high appreciation of Leonard, who was an iconic manager who created a remarkable group of brands. I remember when we wanted to launch Lancôme in the U.S. we were frightened, since the U.S. is so huge compared to the European markets. Leonard explained to me that the conquest of the market was done “store-by-store,” with the gift-with-purchase method, noting that was much less expensive than the advertising that Revlon and Arden were doing. I asked our marketing people to invent a gift-with-purchase as attractive as those Estée Lauder was doing, and we were successful at establishing ourselves in the market.
Laura and Harry Slatkin: One night we had Leonard to dinner at our home. At the table sat retail leaders and beauty and fashion founders. Leonard said to the retail leaders — in only the way he could — “If you want us to be successful together, don’t treat us like vendors — treat us like partners!” Collaboration and building partnerships was the key to his success in business and philanthropy.
Leonard was the greatest leader of our time. He taught Harry and I important principles in both business and philanthropy — he always operated with the highest ethics: He had integrity. He treated everyone with kindness and warmth and inspired everyone he touched to rise to their personal best.
Leonard changed the paradigm for philanthropy, worldwide. He was an important mentor, our champion and very dear friend. When Harry and I founded NEXT for AUTISM, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation was our model. If we could change the face of autism in the way he changed the face of breast cancer — that would be a great accomplishment.
Tony Spring, chairman and CEO, Macy’s Inc.: Leonard Lauder was as passionate about the Lauder business as he was compassionate about the many people he befriended in our industry. We’ve lost an incredible visionary, philanthropist, and leader. I’ll miss those occasional lunches where he shared his love of every aspect of the business and his incredible recall for stores. I always walked away with a “to-do list.” At core, Leonard was a true educator. He loved to teach and give back. Despite his extraordinary success, he carried himself with tremendous humility and concern for others.
Kecia Steelman, CEO, Ulta Beauty: Leonard Lauder was a true trailblazer and icon whose influence on the beauty industry is immeasurable. As longtime partners of The Estée Lauder Cos., we at Ulta Beauty are honored to celebrate his extraordinary life and enduring legacy. His visionary leadership not only shaped the modern beauty landscape, but also transformed how the world experiences this vibrant and ever-evolving industry. A pioneer in every sense, Leonard will forever be remembered as a legend — and deeply admired for the passion, innovation and elegance he brought to beauty.

Geoffroy van Raemdonck, former CEO, Neiman Marcus Group: Last November, we had the honor of presenting Leonard Lauder with the Neiman Marcus Award — an award Estée Lauder herself received in 1962. Standing before the audience, he smiled and asked, “How is it possible that I can be in love with a department store?” Then he shared why: his journey with Neiman Marcus spanned decades, and it was the people — their support, their spirit — that made all the difference.
Leonard will always be remembered for what he accomplished — but his true legend lies in how he did it: quietly, selflessly, and with a heart full of integrity. So much of what he gave happened behind the scenes, never asking for credit.
I’ll never forget one moment during our bankruptcy — a time when we needed true partnership. It was a Friday afternoon when I called him, not knowing if he’d even be available. Within 15 minutes, Leonard was calling me back — from his hospital room in Chicago, just hours after knee surgery. He was in recovery, but that didn’t matter. He listened. He stood up for us. And he moved mountains to bring the right people together.
That call wasn’t just about business. It was Leonard being Leonard — showing up when it mattered most. The 10,000 associates of Neiman Marcus Group will never forget that. We are forever grateful for his strength, his loyalty, and his heart.
Vera Wang: Leonard Lauder was a pioneer, an icon, a gentleman and a friend. His sphere of influence was enormous, but not nearly as significant as his philanthropy. Together with his late wife, Evelyn, they contributed so much to the search for a cure for breast cancer — a cause I also embrace. I cannot think of a more beloved person who touched so many lives no matter who they were. He will be forever treasured and remembered.

Michael Ward, managing director, Harrods: “Leonard Lauder understood, perhaps better than anyone, how to blend the art of retail with the spirit of human connection. He was not only a strategic visionary, but also a man of immense heart. Over the years, I had the privilege of witnessing the depth of his passion for beauty and unwavering commitment to excellence. His enduring partnership with Harrods has shaped exceptional experiences across generations, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who had the honour of working with him.”
Richard F. Zannino, lead independent director, on behalf of the board of directors of The Estée Lauder Companies: It is with profound sadness that The Estée Lauder Companies’ board of directors acknowledges the passing of Leonard A. Lauder, chairman emeritus of the company. Leonard was a visionary leader and a driving force behind building The Estée Lauder Companies into a global powerhouse in prestige beauty. Throughout his decades of visionary, tireless and passionate stewardship, the company expanded across geographies, categories, channels and generations of consumers, anchored by a deep respect for heritage and an eye to the future.
Beyond his extraordinary business acumen, Leonard was a devoted philanthropist and a passionate advocate for the arts, education and medical research, whose generosity and curiosity touched countless lives around the world. As a board, we are beyond grateful for Leonard’s immeasurable contributions. His enduring values — integrity, creativity, humor, humanity and an abiding love for all that The Estée Lauder Companies stands for — will remain central to who we are and will continue to guide us. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the Lauder family and to the many people around the world whose lives were touched by his extraordinary presence.
Gildo Zegna, chairman and CEO, Ermenegildo Zegna Group: Leonard Lauder was not only a visionary in the beauty industry, but also a man of extraordinary generosity and insight. Thanks to his expertise, dedication and passion, he was able to transform the family legacy into a global empire while also supporting important social initiatives. He leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.