Les Wexner
Les Wexner
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Leslie H. Wexner is commonly known as Les Wexner.
Birth and Death Dates
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Les Wexner was born on March 8, 1937, in Dayton, Ohio. He is still alive.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Les Wexner is an American businessman and philanthropist. His primary profession has been as the founder and former CEO of The Limited, Inc., a retail company he led from 1963 until 2020.
Early Life and Background
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Wexner grew up in a middle-class family in Dayton, Ohio. He developed a passion for entrepreneurship at an early age, selling items like magazines and newspapers to his classmates. After graduating from the University of Cincinnati with a degree in business administration, Wexner worked as an accountant before launching his first clothing store, The Limited, in 1963.
Major Accomplishments
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Wexner's most notable accomplishment is building The Limited into one of the largest and most successful retail companies in the United States. Under his leadership, the company expanded to include brands such as Victoria's Secret and Bath & Body Works. Wexner's business acumen and innovative approach to marketing helped establish these brands as household names.
Notable Works or Actions
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Wexner has been recognized for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the areas of education and women's empowerment. He has donated millions of dollars to institutions such as Ohio State University and the Columbus Museum of Art. Wexner has also been a vocal advocate for women's rights, supporting initiatives that promote female entrepreneurship and leadership.
Impact and Legacy
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Les Wexner's impact on the retail industry cannot be overstated. He revolutionized the way clothing is marketed and sold to consumers, introducing concepts such as boutique-style stores and targeted advertising campaigns. Wexner's legacy extends beyond his business accomplishments, however. As a philanthropist and advocate for women's rights, he has left a lasting impact on society.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Les Wexner is widely quoted and remembered for his innovative approach to business and his commitment to social responsibility. His success in building The Limited into a retail powerhouse has made him a respected figure in the business community, while his philanthropic efforts have earned him recognition as a leader in women's empowerment.
Wexner's leadership style, which emphasizes innovation and risk-taking, has been particularly influential among entrepreneurs and business leaders. His emphasis on empowering women through education and economic opportunities has also resonated with audiences worldwide.
Overall, Les Wexner is a remarkable individual whose accomplishments in business and philanthropy have left a lasting impact on society.
Quotes by Les Wexner
A woman at the Limited once asked me, 'Why do you work?' She said, 'You made a lot of money as a young man, so why are you still working?' I had never thought about it before. Forced to consider it, I told her, 'You know why? Because I think that if you stop to smell the roses, you'll get hit by a truck.'
Entrepreneurs, guys that start businesses, grow with them. It’s more painful than it would appear.
Growing up, I knew you were supposed to have a profession – and something better than being a shopkeeper, which is what my parents were.
I don’t think most analysts understand that whether I work a 70-hour week or an 80-hour week, I take my head with me when I go home.
Society can’t wait. It’s sad there are so many entrepreneurs, business successes and venture capitalists who give no thought to society.
In the ’70s and ’80s, the mentality of America was that everything was disposable. The notion of quality wasn’t important.
Sometimes I wish I lived more in the day, but I’m happier thinking about tomorrow or the day after. The way I see it, there’s always a new or next thing.
Ask yourself: What forms the decisions you make? What is it that gnaws at you? What are your crucible moments?
Society can't wait. It's sad there are so many entrepreneurs, business successes and venture capitalists who give no thought to society.