NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 22, 2005--The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. (NYSE:EL) announced today that Javier Perez has been named Vice President for Strategic Planning and Development. Mr. Perez will report to Richard W. Kunes, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, The Estee Lauder Companies Inc.

In his new role, Mr. Perez will be central to the strategic development and long-term planning processes led by William P. Lauder, the Company's President and Chief Executive Officer. He will work with Mr. Lauder and other senior executives to drive the priorities consistent with The Estee Lauder Companies' commitment to remaining a growth company. In addition, Mr. Perez will assume responsibility for and coordinate the activities of the Company's Business Information Center and its Market Research group.

"This key role is one of critical importance as we seek to capitalize on business opportunities in a highly competitive marketplace on a worldwide basis," said Mr. Kunes. "Javier has highly relevant experience across a wide range of businesses and a skill set that is tailor-made for the demands of this position. His experience is truly global, with appointments in New York, Caracas, Mumbai, Hong Kong and London."

Since 2003, Mr. Perez has held senior Business Development positions within the Information and Media Services segment of The McGraw-Hill Companies. He spent 14 years with McKinsey & Company, ultimately as a Principal working with major corporations on a broad range of business development, investment and performance improvement issues.

The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. is one of the world's leading manufacturers and marketers of quality skin care, makeup, fragrance and hair care products. The Company's products are sold in over 130 countries and territories under well-recognized brand names, including Estee Lauder, Aramis, Clinique, Prescriptives, Origins, M-A-C, Bobbi Brown, Tommy Hilfiger, La Mer, Donna Karan, Aveda, stila, Jo Malone, Bumble and bumble, Darphin, Michael Kors, Rodan + Fields, American Beauty, Flirt!, Good Skin(TM), Donald Trump, The Fragrance and Grassroots(TM).

CONTACT: Estee Lauder
Media Relations:
Sally Susman, 212-572-4430
or
Investor Relations:
Dennis D'Andrea, 212-572-4384

SOURCE: The Estee Lauder Companies Inc.