**Leonard Lauder: The Visionary Behind Estée Lauder's Global Success Passes Away at 92**

**Lauder's legacy, shaped by innovation and philanthropy, leaves a lasting impact on the beauty industry and beyond.**

Leonard Lauder, the prominent businessman renowned for steering Estée Lauder to global prominence, has died at the age of 92. His passing, on Saturday, was confirmed by Estée Lauder Companies, highlighting his pivotal role in nurturing the family business founded in 1946.

Joining the company in 1958, Lauder showcased exceptional leadership over 17 years as chief executive, orchestrating strategic acquisitions of notable brands like Clinique, MAC, and Bobbi Brown. His innovative approach fostered the expansion of the cosmetics giant, facilitating a presence in 150 countries and achieving remarkable sales figures of $15.6 billion in 2022.

"Leonard was a pillar of inspiration and a true pioneer whose vision and energy were unmatched," stated Stephane de La Faverie, current CEO of Estée Lauder. Lauder's strategic prowess was evident when he took the company public in 1995; on its first trading day, shares soared by 33%.

An influential figure in the business realm and beyond, Lauder was remembered fondly by peers. Elizabeth Hurley, who began her modeling career with Estée Lauder, expressed her deep feelings on social media, calling him "my American Daddy." Other tributes poured in from esteemed figures, including Steve Forbes and former New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg, who acknowledged the profound impact Lauder made during his lifetime.

Apart from business, Lauder dedicated himself to the arts and cancer research. Notably, he promised his extensive collection of Cubist art to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York in 2013. Lauder also served as the honorary chairman of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, reflecting his commitment to philanthropy and social causes.

Leonard Lauder is survived by a legacy that will shape the beauty industry for generations to come.