Early Life and Education
Ronald Lauder was born on February 26, 1944, in New York City, to Estée and Joseph Lauder, the founders of the Estée Lauder Companies. He attended Bronx High School of Science and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in International Business from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. Lauder also studied at the University of Paris and received a certificate in International Business from the University of Brussels.
Rise to Success
Lauder's career began in 1964 at the Estée Lauder Company, where he initially headed the international department. He later served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for European and NATO Policy in the Reagan administration from 1983 to 1986. In 1986, he was appointed U.S. Ambassador to Austria, a position he held until 1987. Lauder has also been involved in various business ventures. He founded Central European Media Enterprises (CME), a leading commercial television company in Central and Eastern Europe. Currently, he serves as Chairman of Clinique Laboratories, LLC, a division of The Estée Lauder Companies Inc..
Key Business Strategies
While not as directly involved in the day-to-day operations of the Estée Lauder Companies as his brother Leonard, Ronald Lauder has significantly influenced the company's strategic direction through his substantial shareholdings and board involvement. He has focused on international expansion and played a role in the company's growth. His diverse business ventures, including CME and RWL Water, demonstrate his ability to identify and invest in promising opportunities.
Philanthropy
Lauder's philanthropic efforts are extensive. He established the Ronald S. Lauder Foundation, which supports Jewish schools, kindergartens, and summer camps in Central and Eastern Europe, benefiting thousands of families. He has also served as President of the World Jewish Congress since 2007 and Chairman of the Jewish National Fund. Furthermore, Lauder co-founded the Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation.