Career Timeline of Les Wexner: Major Achievements and Milestones

Discover the career path of Les Wexner, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Leslie Wexner is an American billionaire businessman, best known as the driving force behind the Limited Brands empire, which included retail giants like Victoria's Secret, Bath & Body Works, Abercrombie & Fitch and La Senza. As chairman emeritus, Wexner shaped the landscape of American retail for decades through innovative marketing and merchandise strategies. Beyond his business ventures, Wexner has also been involved in philanthropy and political activism, solidifying his position as a notable figure in both the business and public spheres.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1959: Wexner Graduates from Ohio State University

In 1959, Les Wexner graduated from Ohio State University with a major in business administration.

August 10, 1963: Opening of the First 'The Limited' Store

On August 10, 1963, Les Wexner opened the first 'The Limited' store in the Kingsdale Shopping Center in Upper Arlington, Ohio.

August 1964: Opening of Second 'The Limited' store.

In August 1964, Les Wexner opened the second 'The Limited' store.

1969: Limited Brands Goes Public

In 1969, Limited Brands, founded by Les Wexner, went public and was listed as LTD on the NYSE.

1972: Robert H. Morosky Buys Stock in The Limited

In 1972, Robert H. Morosky bought stock in The Limited and became Vice Chairman of the Board.

1976: Opening of the 100th Store

In 1976, Les Wexner opened the 100th store of The Limited.

1978: Purchase of Mast Industries

In 1978, Les Wexner took on significant debt to purchase Mast Industries.

1982: Acquisition of Lane Bryant and Victoria's Secret

In 1982, Les Wexner purchased Lane Bryant and Victoria's Secret.

1986: Wexner Joins Banc One Board

In 1986, Les Wexner joined the board of directors of Banc One.

1987: Wexner Hires Jeffrey Epstein as Financial Manager

In 1987, Les Wexner hired Jeffrey Epstein as his financial manager.

1987: Wexner Hires Jeffrey Epstein

In 1987, Les Wexner retained Jeffrey Epstein as his financial manager.

1987: Robert Morosky Resigns

In 1987, Robert Morosky resigned as Vice Chairman of The Limited's board.

1988: Wexner Joins OSU Board of Trustees

In 1988, Les Wexner began his service on the Board of Trustees of Ohio State University.

1991: Formation of the Mega Group

In 1991, Les Wexner and Charles Bronfman co-founded the Mega Group, comprising wealthy businessmen aimed at influencing US foreign policy in the Middle East and maintaining ties with Israeli intelligence.

1991: Wexner Serves on Banc One Board

In 1991, Les Wexner was still serving on the board of directors of Banc One.

1992: Victoria's Secret Valued at $1 Billion

By 1992, Victoria's Secret, acquired by Les Wexner in 1982, was worth an estimated $1 billion.

1993: Wexner Hires Len Schlesinger

In 1993, Les Wexner hired Len Schlesinger as an advisor, who was later appointed as a company director.

1997: Wexner's Term Ends on OSU Board

In 1997, Les Wexner's term on the Board of Trustees of Ohio State University ended.

2002: Wexner on Hollinger International Board

Until 2002, Les Wexner served on the Board of Directors of Hollinger International with Henry Kissinger.

2003: Mega Group Hires Frank Luntz

In 2003, the Mega Group, founded by Les Wexner and Charles Bronfman, hired Frank Luntz as a consultant to mobilize support for Israel.

May 11, 2004: Wexner Receives Woodrow Wilson Award

On May 11, 2004, Les Wexner received the Woodrow Wilson Award for Corporate Citizenship.

December 2005: Wexner Appointed to Second Term on OSU Board

In December 2005, Les Wexner was appointed to his second term on the Board of Trustees of Ohio State University.

2007: Wexner Ends Relationship with Epstein

In 2007, Les Wexner ended his professional relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, who had served as his financial manager since 1987.

2007: End of Wexner-Epstein Financial Relationship

Les Wexner's professional relationship with Jeffrey Epstein ended in 2007, after Epstein had served as Wexner's financial manager since 1987.

2009: Wexner Elected Chair of OSU Board

In 2009, Les Wexner was elected chair of Ohio State University Board of Trustees.

February 16, 2011: Wexner Pledges Donation to Ohio State

On February 16, 2011, Les Wexner pledged a donation of $100 million to Ohio State University.

February 10, 2012: Ohio State University Medical Center Renamed

On February 10, 2012, the Ohio State University Medical Center was renamed the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. This commemorated Les Wexner's leadership and support of the university for over 30 years.

June 2012: Wexner's Chairmanship Ends

In June 2012, it was announced that Les Wexner's chairmanship of the Ohio State University Board of Trustees would end eight years before his term expired.