The Estée Lauder Companies announced on Monday the appointment of Michael Bowes as executive vice president, chief people officer, becoming the first executive to hold the newly created title.

In this role, effective April 1, Bowes will oversee all aspects of global human resources, including talent management, career development, and organizational design. He will succeed Michael O’Hare, executive vice president and chief human resources officer, who is retiring. 

“Michael is a dynamic leader with a deep passion for people and culture,” said president and CEO Stéphane de La Faverie, who Bowes will report to.

“His strategic vision, commitment to talent development, and ability to foster collaboration across our global organization make him the ideal leader to shape the future of our workforce. Michael’s promotion to EVP, chief people officer, reflects his exceptional track record and his unwavering commitment to making ELC a place where all employees can thrive, innovate, and grow.”

Since joining Estée Lauder in 2015, Bowes has led global talent acquisition and talent management, including executive talent management, talent development, and enterprise learning and development. His leadership was instrumental in launching a new internal talent marketplace, employee listening surveys, and leadership development programs. Bowes is also recognized for championing diversity and inclusion efforts.

Prior to Estée Lauder, Bowes held senior HR and talent management roles at retail brands, including Coach, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Cole Haan, and Saks Fifth Avenue. He was also managing director of executive search at Karen Harvey Consulting.