The Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) names a new CEO just ahead of a quarterly earnings report that is better than expected. Starting January 1, 2025, Stéphane de La Faverie will replace longtime CEO Fabrizio Freda, who announced two months ago that he would retire next year.William Lauder will step down as executive chairman but remain chair of the board of directors. Jane Lauder was seen as a contender for the top role, but she announced her departure this week.