Michael Bowes Appointed Executive Vice President, Chief People Officer at The Estée Lauder Companies
The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. announced today that Michael Bowes will take on the role of Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer, effective April 1, 2025. Reporting directly to President and CEO, Stéphane de La Faverie, Michael will be the first executive in the company’s history to hold the title of Chief People Officer. In this new capacity, he will be responsible for overseeing all areas of Global Human Resources, including talent management, career development, organizational design, and fostering a people-centric organizational culture. With a strong focus on creating a sustainable and evolving culture, Michael will be at the forefront of advancing the company’s employee-centric vision and continuing to drive the organization forward.
In a statement from Stéphane de La Faverie, he praised Michael’s appointment: “Michael is a dynamic leader with a deep passion for people and culture. His strategic vision, commitment to talent development, and ability to foster collaboration across our global organization make him the ideal leader to shape the future of our workforce. Michael’s promotion to EVP, Chief People Officer, reflects his exceptional track record and his unwavering commitment to making ELC a place where all employees can thrive, innovate, and grow.”
Michael’s appointment as Chief People Officer is a significant milestone for the company, reflecting the importance of human resources and employee experience in achieving organizational success. His leadership and approach are expected to bring new dimensions to the company’s HR practices, with a focus on continued talent development and collaboration across the business.
Having joined The Estée Lauder Companies in 2015, Michael has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s global talent strategy. During his time with the company, he has been instrumental in leading the Global Talent Acquisition division and managing end-to-end Talent Management. This includes overseeing Executive Talent Management, Talent Development, and Enterprise Learning and Development. He has successfully led initiatives to implement a new internal talent marketplace, employee listening surveys, and leadership development programs. These initiatives have not only enhanced the company’s approach to talent acquisition and development but also reinforced The Estée Lauder Companies’ commitment to inclusivity and personal growth for all employees.
As a key driver of employee engagement and development, Michael has championed several initiatives aimed at supporting individual growth and fostering an inclusive culture. His dedication to these causes is demonstrated through his active involvement in programs such as From Every Chair, Leading with High Touch, and the Reverse Mentor program. In addition, he has worked to create development opportunities within the HR department, helping foster a nurturing and collaborative work environment.
Michael’s leadership has also played a key role in strengthening The Estée Lauder Companies’ commitment to building an agile and connected workplace. His strategic approach, along with his ability to adapt and pivot in a rapidly changing environment, has reinforced the company’s position as a forward-thinking organization that prioritizes its people and their development.
Before joining The Estée Lauder Companies, Michael held several senior roles in talent management, human resources business partnership, and executive search. Notably, he served as the Managing Director of Executive Search at Karen Harvey Consulting, where he worked with a wide range of clients in retail and consumer goods. His previous experience also includes key positions at some of the most respected global retail brands, such as Coach, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Cole Haan, and Saks Fifth Avenue. These roles allowed Michael to hone his expertise in talent management, organizational development, and human resources strategies, which he has successfully leveraged in his career at The Estée Lauder Companies.
Michael will succeed Michael O’Hare, the current Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, who has announced his retirement. Michael O’Hare will step down from his role on April 1, 2025, after an illustrious career with the company. Over the coming months, Michael Bowes will work closely with Michael O’Hare to ensure a seamless leadership transition and continued success in the company’s human resources functions.
The retirement of Michael O’Hare marks the end of a significant era for The Estée Lauder Companies. Under his leadership, the company’s HR strategy and practices have evolved significantly, making the HR function one of the most respected in the industry. Michael O’Hare’s dedication to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, along with his ability to manage talent across the globe, has left an indelible mark on the company’s culture. His contributions have paved the way for Michael Bowes to take the reins and further advance The Estée Lauder Companies’ commitment to its people.
Looking ahead, Michael Bowes’ appointment reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to shaping the future of its workforce. His vision for talent management and development, along with his focus on inclusivity and organizational growth, will be instrumental in ensuring The Estée Lauder Companies continues to lead as a global beauty and wellness powerhouse.
