In an important statement of its inclusion and diversity principles and commitment, The Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) today announced a new talent and development programme in partnership with Florida A&M University (FAMU) to build the next generation of Black beauty leaders in travel retail.
The initiative is in line with the US company’s collective vision to be the most inclusive and diverse beauty house in the world. It is also in accordance with the company’s commitments to Racial Equity announced in June 2020.
Under the scheme, ELC’s Travel Retail division has created an exclusive internship and scholarship programme with Florida A&M University — which is ranked number one among public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU)[1] — furthering the company’s goal to double full-time and intern recruits from HBCUs.
Through this exclusive ten-week summer internship programme, Florida A&M University’s rising juniors and seniors will have an inside look into the fast-paced world of travel retail at ELC.
One of the company’s fastest-growing channels, travel retail covers the world of duty free environments, including airports, downtown locations, airlines, cruises and border shops, touching over three billion passengers annually. With placements in the company’s New York and Miami offices, students will be exposed to the dynamic, international channel and have a chance to learn how to build brand equity and market share by catering to a diverse, traveling consumer.
In addition, 41 merit scholarships of US$10,000 will be awarded to students in the University’s School of Business and Industry over the course of five years by Florida A&M University on behalf of The Estée Lauder Companies.
“What distinguishes FAMU from other universities is its legacy of providing access to high-quality, affordable education to many students who otherwise may never have the opportunity to fulfil their dreams of getting a college degree,” said FAMU President Larry Robinson, Ph.D.
“We are thrilled to build on this legacy of development in partnership with The Estée Lauder Companies to open new doors for our student population and demonstrate for them how their voices and unique perspectives can create a positive impact to build a better beauty industry.”
To celebrate the new partnership, executives from ELC attended FAMU’s Homecoming, hosting a series of informal meet and greets, along with a formal presentation to students to share with them the vision and values of The Estée Lauder Companies and introduce the Travel Retail team.
“As a graduate of two HBCUs, I know the power these communities have in raising each other up, celebrating our unique perspectives and building confidence to seize opportunities,” said The Estée Lauder Companies Senior Vice President, Equity and Engagement Nicole Monson.
“Our goal at ELC is to create a similarly inclusive culture and to be both the employer of choice for diverse talent and the brand of choice for our global consumers. By welcoming FAMU into the ELC Family, we are taking another critical step towards racial equity, and I look forward to developing what I am confident will be a meaningful, long-term relationship with the University, its students and alumni.”
The Estée Lauder Companies Global President, Travel Retail and Retail Development Olivier Bottrie added, “As one of the company’s fastest-growing channels, travel retail opens up a world of possibilities for young talent, introducing them to not only our broad portfolio of brands, but an inherently diverse, international consumer base.
“We are thrilled to partner with FAMU and its community to foster the next generation of Black beauty leaders in travel retail and build both a brand and employee experience that celebrates and honours the power of inclusion, diversity and equity.”
FAMU students and alumni can explore and learn more about this partnership here.
[1] US News and World Report 2022 Best Colleges rankings.
