The Estée Lauder Companies has revealed that CEO Fabrizio Freda plans to retire at the end of fiscal year 2025, after more than 16 years at the helm. The company’s portfolio includes iconic brands like Estée Lauder, Clinique, MAC, La Mer, Bobbi Brown, Jo Malone London, and Tom Ford Beauty. Freda will continue to steer the company through its ongoing strategic priorities, including the Profit Recovery and Growth Plan, until his successor is appointed. The Board of Directors, already deep into a thorough CEO succession planning process, has been considering a range of highly qualified candidates both from within the company and externally.
William P. Lauder, Executive Chairman of The Estée Lauder Companies, expressed the Board’s deep appreciation for Freda’s leadership. “On behalf of the entire Board of Directors and the Lauder family, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Fabrizio for his unwavering dedication over the past sixteen years. We look forward to celebrating his many achievements as his retirement date approaches. In the meantime, Fabrizio, the Board, and the leadership team remain fully committed to navigating the current challenges facing our company.”
Lauder also highlighted the personal connection he shares with Freda, noting, “Fabrizio has been an incredible partner to me and other members of the Lauder family. His deep understanding of our family business, combined with a long-term vision, has been instrumental in transforming the company to meet the ever-changing needs of our consumers.”
Reflecting on his decision, Freda shared, “Leading The Estée Lauder Companies has been both an honour and a privilege. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together—building a team of the most talented, dedicated, and passionate individuals in the industry. We’ve transformed this company in remarkable ways, setting new standards for excellence. As we manage for the long term, now is the right time to look ahead to the next generation of leadership. I’m committed to ensuring a smooth transition and will continue to focus on executing our strategic reset and growth plans.”
Freda will work closely with the Board to select his successor and ensure a seamless handover. He will also be available in fiscal year 2026 to offer guidance as needed.
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