I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Leonard Lauder this week – a true giant of the beauty industry and a visionary leader whose legacy has shaped generations.
As I happened to be going through some old CEW UK files this past weekend, I came across a letter from Leonard himself; a thank-you note for sharing an anecdote about his parents, Estée and Joseph Lauder. It brought home once again how thoughtful and gracious he was, never missing an opportunity to connect and show appreciation.
The anecdote I had shared with him dates back to when I was 19, working as a junior journalist covering shopping for Cunard’s Ocean Times. I had reviewed a new Estée Lauder mascara, and to my astonishment, received a personal card from Estée and Joseph Lauder thanking me for the mention which was very touching. That gesture stayed with me for decades and served as a quiet influence on my own career, especially in the values I carried into my PR company and later into CEW UK.
Leonard was a steadfast supporter of CEW’s mission since we launched in the UK in 1992. His belief in the importance of women in leadership roles aligned powerfully with CEW’s goal of promoting more women to board-level positions in the beauty industry. He led with integrity, intelligence, and heart, and his influence helped shape not only a company but an industry culture that valued both excellence and empathy.
He will be remembered not only for building a global beauty empire but also for the generosity, encouragement, and vision he extended to so many along the way.
Leonard Lauder will be profoundly missed and on behalf of CEW UK, I am sending our sincere condolences to the Lauder family and to his many colleagues from around the world.
Caroline Neville MBE, Executive President, CEW UK
