Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) executive Kendal Ascher has died aged 56.
Ascher had worked for the US luxury beauty giant for more than 25 years, most recently as Senior VP and GM of the ELC’s luxury portfolio.
This included managing luxury perfume house Jo Malone London, as well as skin care brands La Mer and Darphin, across North America.
Ascher began his career with ELC in June 1995 as an Account Executive for Aramis Designer Fragrances, before moving over to head up Bobbi Brown Cosmetics in the same role in 1999.
He then left to join French beauty giant L'Oréal in 2001, working for nearly six years as Assistant VP of Marketing for skin care brand Kiehl's, before returning to ELC in 2007.
Ascher’s passing has seen an outpouring of condolences from the beauty industry.
This includes Kathryn Farmer, Senior Regional Director at Sally Beauty, who previously worked as Sales Manager at ELC on Tom Ford Beauty, Kilian Paris and Balmain Beauty.
Farmer wrote in a LinkedIn post: “Kendal was a leader and mentor who left an undeniable mark on our industry and on every person fortunate enough to work alongside him.
“Kendal possessed a rare brilliance, the kind that built business, elevated brands and, most importantly, cultivated talent.
“His impeccable style and commanding presence captivated every room he entered.
“Yet, it was his sharp mind, quick humour and generous heart that truly set him apart.”
Dawn Francisco, Chief Revenue Officer at Anastasia Beverly Hills, wrote in a LinkedIn comment: “He was one of the sweetest humans. There was nothing like a Kendal bear hug.
“He was a mentor, a friend and an icon.
“Our industry has lost one of the very best.”
Katie Glowski, Senior VP, GM North America Sales, at SPF and Sunscreen Brand Supergoop!, also made a statement on LinkedIn, and said: “Heartbroken by this loss yet filled with gratitude for having known him.
“Kendal truly was one of a kind.
“Rest in peace, kind soul, you have touched the lives of many and will be greatly missed.”
Cosmetics Business has contacted ELC for a comment.
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