Richard W. Kunes, executive vice president and chief financial officer of The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. plans to retire effective on or about June 30, 2013. Kunes intends to continue to serve the company as CFO until June 30, 2012, or such earlier time as his successor begins to serve as CFO. Thereafter, he will continue his relationship with the company as executive vice president, senior advisor to the chief executive officer, and work on special projects through June 30, 2013.

“I admire Rick’s long-standing commitment to The Estée Lauder Companies and on behalf of the Company, I am thankful for his contributions and efforts,” said William P. Lauder, Executive Chairman. “As CFO, Rick has been an important member of our leadership team and has been instrumental in helping our Company reach record financial highs. Through his leadership and expertise, Rick instilled the financial discipline that has helped us achieve our industry leadership position.”

Kunes, who said he is retiring to spend more time with his family, joined the Company in 1986 as international manufacturing controller and has served as CFO since 2000.