Leonard A. Lauder, Chairman Emeritus of The Estée Lauder Companies, was named this year’s recipient of the Neiman Marcus Award for Distinguished Service in the Field of Fashion. Lauder joins the esteemed ranks of over 150 luminaries recognized for their contributions to the industry.
 
Lauder’s mother previously received this award in 1962. A celebration of this longstanding relationship, this award marks the next chapter in the enduring collaboration between Neiman Marcus and ELC.
 
Lauder said, 
 
“When my mother, Mrs. Estée Lauder, was recognized with this award in 1962, it meant a great deal to her, and it means a great deal to me today. As I reflect upon the extraordinary partnership between The Estée Lauder Companies and Neiman Marcus, this award represents a celebration of collaboration and of people working together with a great sense of purpose, bringing their best to the industry.”
 
Lauder joined the family business in 1958 and served as CEO from 1982 to 1999. During his tenure, Lauder ushered in a new era, focused on international expansion and building the company’s brands and acquisition strategy. 
 
In 1995, The Estée Lauder Companies went public, solidifying the global powerhouse as a leader in the beauty industry. 
 
As a result of ELC’s groundbreaking vision, the company launched brands such as Clinique and Origins and oversaw the acquisitions of MAC, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, and La Mer. Currently, the company portfolio includes more than 20 brands worldwide.
 
Geoffroy van Raemdonck, CEO, Neiman Marcus Group (NMG), said, 
 
“Leonard Lauder is a singular force who forever changed the beauty industry. His stewardship led The Estée Lauder Companies to become home to some of the world’s most beloved beauty brands. He understands the power of relationships and his values are imbued in everything the company stands for. Along every step of the way, he has been a remarkable partner in our journey to bring the world’s most coveted brands to our customers.”
 
Lauder also shares NMG’s philosophy of Leading with Love and dedicating remarkable resources to philanthropic efforts. 
 
Lauder co-founded the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation, which continues to drive groundbreaking research in the treatment of the disease. Lauder is a devoted supporter of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, co-founded by his late wife, Mrs. Evelyn Lauder. 
 
He is also an acclaimed art collector and benefactor to institutions such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and The Whitney Museum of Art; Memorial Sloan-Kettering Hospital; The Aspen Institute, and other institutions.
 
In November, Lauder will be honored before industry leaders at an awards celebration in New York City. His year-long recognition will include dynamic, multi-faceted programming designed to engage customers through exclusive in-store and online experiences. 
 
As part of the retailer’s ‘Retail-tainment’ strategy, the beauty giant will concept exciting brand expressions to come to life through immersive activations. These brand moments will be further amplified across Neiman Marcus’ integrated retail model – in-store, online, and through remote selling.   

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