Leonard Lauder

Date of Birth: March 19, 1933

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Biography

Leonard Lauder, born on March 19, 1933, in New York City, is an American businessman and philanthropist renowned for his leadership of the Estée Lauder Companies. As the elder son of Estée and Joseph Lauder, founders of the renowned cosmetics company, Leonard has made significant contributions to the beauty industry, transforming the family business into a global empire. He joined the company in 1958 and became President in 1972, later serving as Chairman and CEO. Under his guidance, the company expanded its brand portfolio and global presence, acquiring numerous high-profile brands like MAC, Bobbi Brown, and Aveda. Beyond his business acumen, Leonard is a distinguished philanthropist, notably in the fields of art and education. He is a prominent art collector, particularly known for his extensive collection of Cubist art, which he donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Leonard Lauder’s impact extends beyond business; his philanthropic efforts have had a lasting influence on cultural and educational institutions.

5 Interesting Facts about Leonard Lauder

1. Leonard Lauder is an avid art collector and has one of the world’s most significant collections of Cubist art.

2. He coined the term “Lipstick Index,” a theory suggesting that lipstick sales are inversely correlated to economic health.

3. Leonard served in the U.S. Navy before joining the family business.

4. He has been married twice, first to Evelyn Hausner and later to Judy Glickman Lauder.

5. In 2013, he donated his Cubist art collection, valued at over $1 billion, to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Leonard Lauder

1. “When you live your life in integrity, you can sleep at night.”

2. “The most important thing in business is honesty, integrity, hard work, family, and never forgetting where you came from.”

3. “Publicity is absolutely critical. A good PR story is infinitely more effective than a front-page ad.”

4. “The only way to make a man trustworthy is to trust him.”

5. “A great brand is a story that never stops unfolding.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Leonard Lauder’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $21 billion.

Children

Leonard Lauder has two sons from his first marriage to Evelyn Hausner. His sons are William P. Lauder, who has served as Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board of the Estée Lauder Companies, and Gary Lauder, a venture capitalist.