Estée Lauder CFO on driving a turnaround led by consumer-first innovation

Core Insights - Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) is experiencing a turnaround, having exceeded revenue and earnings expectations in its latest quarter, with a focus on stabilization and credibility [1][4] - The "Beauty Reimagined" strategy aims to restore credibility, address declining sales, and improve market agility while responding to competition [2][3] Financial Performance - For the quarter ending September 30, ELC reported a 4% year-over-year sales growth in Q1 fiscal 2026, indicating early recovery in China and travel retail [4] - The company noted margin expansion, nearly doubled EPS, and 3% organic sales growth, reflecting a strategic long-term investment approach rather than short-term cost-cutting [5] - Operating margin increased by 300 basis points to 7.3%, supported by a 3% reduction in non-consumer-facing costs [6] Strategic Focus - ELC is prioritizing consumer needs by investing in media, product innovation, and new product launches, such as La Mer night products and Clinique serums [7] - The company has restructured to empower regional teams, allowing for faster decision-making and greater accountability [8] Leadership Philosophy - ELC's leadership philosophy is built on four pillars: behave like owners, put the consumer first, create value, and uphold governance with courage [9][10] - The finance function is emphasized to drive demand rather than merely manage costs [9] Leadership Experience - CFO Akhil Shrivastava's extensive background at Procter & Gamble has informed his approach at ELC, emphasizing a deep understanding of consumer needs and strategic prioritization [11][12]