Estée Lauder Companies EVP of global comms Alex Trower to retire

Alex Trower is to retire from her role as executive vice president (EVP) of Global Communications at The Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) after 13 years with the beauty and cosmetics giant.

Trower will retire on 1 July, with her successor to be announced at a later date.

Trower’s leadership has seen a strategic expansion of ELC’s Global Communications across regions since she took up the post in 2008 and in 2016, she oversaw the launch of the company’s refreshed Corporate Brand, including “a transformational change” in where, how and why the company engaged with its stakeholders.

“Through this lens, Trower and her team have enabled the organization to communicate boldly, quickly and in more intentional and transparent ways, with an emphasis on strengthening and modernizing the platforms that most resonate with its audiences,” ELC said.

Trower has also been at the forefront of ELC’s efforts across philanthropy, citizenship, sustainability, inclusion, diversity and equity - also serving as a Board member of its Charitable Foundation, a founding member of the company’s Diversity Council and the first Executive Co-Sponsor of the company’s LGBTQA employee resource group wELCome.

Commenting on the move ELC president and CEO Fabrizio Freda said: “Alex has been a highly respected thought-leader, collaborative partner, and a trusted senior business advisor,”

“Leveraging her deep expertise across financial, corporate, consumer and crisis communications, Alex has continuously evolved our strategic communications priorities to drive and support the rapid growth of our business.

“She built a truly outstanding, global, multi-disciplinary organization and has led her team with wisdom and grace, continuously strengthening the delicate balance of art and science that is ever-present in the world of communications.”

Trower, who described the decision to retire as “bittersweet,” said: “I am incredibly proud of all that my team and I have accomplished,”

“ELC’s Global Communications organization has consistently advanced ahead of the curve, seamlessly partnering with stakeholders across the company and the industry to drive and support the continued success of our business.

“I know that the talented Global Communications team is well positioned for its next chapter of growth.

“On a personal note, it has been an absolute pleasure to serve in this role alongside the Lauder Family and the exceptional ELC executive leadership team.”