Kendal Ascher, senior vice president of the luxury portfolio and general manager at The Estée Lauder Companies, has died.

Tara Simon, president, The Americas, ELC, commented,

“We are heartbroken by the loss of Kendal. His impact extended far beyond his role as our North America luxury brands leader. He was a fearless advocate for his teams, a generous mentor, a lover of beauty and luxury, always an optimist, and mostly, a friend.”

According to The Daily Mail, Ascher reportedly died in his husband William Howe’s arms in the early hours of Wednesday, February 25, after feeling light-headed. He reportedly fell limp on their way to the bedroom of their New York City home and died “within seconds.”

Ascher was part of ELC for 25 years. He began as a field account executive, progressing to vice president of marketing for various brands, before serving in a variety of general manager roles.

As senior vice president of the Luxury Portfolio and general manager, Ascher oversaw North America strategies for La Mer, Tom Ford Beauty, Jo Malone London, Kilian Paris, Balmain Beauty, and Frédéric Malle. He led teams to enhance each brand’s positioning, distribution, and consumer focus.

He also served as a mentor for students in the Fashion Institute of Technology Cosmetics and Fragrance Marketing and Management program, as an alum.

Jane Hertzmark Hudis, executive vice president and chief brand officer, ELC, added, 

“Kendal was one of a kind, full of passion and life. He brought the best to everyone he touched — his colleagues, his retail partners, and especially his field team. When Kendal walked into a room, he lit it up. He was full of energy, kind and funny, and he had a heart of gold. He truly loved our company, and we were all blessed to be inspired by Kendal.”