02.23.22
Global beauty brand The Estee Lauder Companies has suspended John Demsey, executive group president of the group, following backlash over a meme posted on his personal Instagram account that allegedly contained a racial slur and jokes about Covid-19. The post has since been removed from his account.
An internal memo from the company obtained by WWD said this:
“Effective immediately, John Demsey is being placed on unpaid leave due to content posted on his Instagram handle. The content posted does not represent the values of The Estée Lauder Companies. As a company deeply committed to inclusive actions and behavior, and in line with our company policies, our employees and our leadership are accountable for upholding these values.”
Demsey oversees a wide portfolio of brands, including M·A·C, Clinique, Becca, Too Faced, Smashbox, Glamglow and Tom Ford Beauty.
In addition to his brand portfolio, Demsey leads the company’s enterprise-wide Creative Organization, and oversees the Creative Center of Excellence, focused on the ongoing advancement of creative capabilities and talent across the company.
Prior to his current role, Demsey served as group president for 10 years, leading several brands to growth. He has a wealth of experience in the prestige beauty and luxury retail industries and is active in several AIDS and health-related organizations.
Notably, he also serves as chairman of the M·A·C AIDS Fund, which has raised more than $500 million to date in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
