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Estée Lauder appoints Brian Franz as first chief technology, data & analytics officer
The Estée Lauder Companies has announced the appointment of Brian Franz as its new Chief Technology, Data & Analytics Officer, effective from April 21, 2025. This marks the first time the company has combined these roles into a single position. Franz will report directly to Stéphane de La Faverie, President and CEO, and will join the company's Executive Team.
Franz is tasked with leading the strategic transformation of Estée Lauder's global data and technology capabilities. His responsibilities will include overseeing the global Information Technology (IT) organisation, Digital Technology & Experience, and Enterprise Data teams. In his new role, Franz will focus on platform integration, delivering personalised digital experiences, and utilising data as a strategic asset.
The appointment is part of Estée Lauder's broader strategy to modernise its infrastructure and enhance its technological capabilities. Stéphane de La Faverie commented on the appointment, stating, "As we drive our bold Beauty Reimagined vision, Brian’s deep expertise and fresh perspectives will be pivotal in executing the biggest technology and operational transformation in our company’s history."
Franz brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as Executive Vice President, Global Chief Information Officer and Head of Enterprise Resiliency at State Street. His career also includes senior leadership roles at Diageo PLC and PepsiCo International, as well as leadership positions at GE and AT&T.
De La Faverie further elaborated on Franz's qualifications, saying, "Brian’s experience in modernizing infrastructure, building resilient and sustainable platforms, and advancing AI-driven capabilities will be critical as we accelerate our evolution into a more agile and consumer-focused organization. Brian’s strategic leadership, combined with his passion for innovation and talent development, makes him the ideal leader to shape the future of Technology, Data and Analytics at The Estée Lauder Companies."
Franz's educational background includes a master's degree from New York University and a bachelor's degree from Iona College. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to enhance Estée Lauder's technological and data-driven initiatives.
The Estée Lauder Companies is a leading manufacturer, marketer, and seller of skincare, makeup, fragrance, and hair care products, operating in approximately 150 countries worldwide. The company aims to leverage Franz's expertise to support its ongoing transformation and innovation efforts.
De La Faverie also highlighted the significance of combining the roles of Chief Technology, Data & Analytics Officer, stating, "By bringing these critical areas together under one leader, we are simplifying our structure, removing operational silos, and creating stronger alignment across our data and technology strategies—key enablers of our Beauty Reimagined transformation."
Franz is expected to leverage capabilities from external technology partners to support Estée Lauder's modernisation and innovation goals. His leadership is anticipated to play a crucial role in the company's efforts to become more agile and consumer-focused.