Brandon Truaxe, founder and former CEO of skincare company Deciem (makers of The Ordinary), has died aged 40.
The brand confirmed the sad news in a tribute on their Instagram page, the caption read: "Brandon, our founder and friend. You touched our hearts, inspired our minds and made us believe that anything is possible. Thank you for every laugh, every learning and every moment of your genius. Whilst we can’t imagine a world without you, we promise to take care of each other and will work hard to continue your vision. May you finally be at peace. Love, (forever) your DECIEM"
According to Vox, the news was revealed to employees by acting CEO Nicola Kilner via an email on Monday. The note reportedly said:
"I can’t believe I am typing these words. Brandon has passed away over the weekend. Heartbroken doesn’t come close to how I, and how I know many of you will be feeling.
All offices, warehouses, factories and stores please close today and take the time to cry with sadness, smile at the good times we had, reflect on what his genius built and hug your loved ones that little harder.
We are all in disbelief and shock but I will be in touch again very soon.
I love you all incredibly much, as did he."
Concerns had been raised about Truaxe following erratic behaviour late last year. In October 2018, he was removed from his post as CEO of Deciem.
Estée Lauder, who own a minority stake in the company, sued Truaxe after he posted a video on Instagram to advise that he was closing down his own company until further notice with immediate effect.
He claimed that "almost everyone at Deciem has been involved in major criminal activity."
A leaked company email, which was shared exclusively with Cosmopolitan UK, revealed that all stores were asked to close with immediate effect, and the Deciem website to be replaced with an HTML page. The email warned staff that anyone who "disrespects the guidance," "will be terminated tomorrow."
Brandon's cause of death is still unknown.
Cosmopolitan UK has reached out to Deciem for comment.
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This article originally appeared on Cosmopolitan.com/uk. Minor edits have been made by the Cosmo.ph editors.
