Boix-Vives bought Rossignol at the age of 29 and was viewed as the driving force behind the French company emerging as a world leading skiing brand.

The FIS said under Boix-Vives’ leadership the company focused on "innovation and internationalisation", adding that the Frenchman was close to champions and athletes with competition placed at the heart of the company.

"A passionate entrepreneur, Laurent Boix-Vives was a visionary industrialist and one of the great figures of the ski industry and the development of winter sports in France and around the world," the FIS said.

"Rossignol has lost its emblematic figure, who was able to turn a small craft workshop in Voiron into the world's leading ski group.

"Laurent Boix-Vives contributed to popularising the practice of winter sports in France and around the world.

"Those who were lucky enough to have had the opportunity to work with him, remember a man who was profoundly human, attentive, demanding and always caring.

"FIS would like to recognise the role of Laurent Boix-Vives with the development of the ski industry and offer its deepest condolences to his family, friends and loved ones."

Bruno Cercley, Rossignol President, has said the organisation has "lost a symbol, a mentor and a friend."

Rossignol had enjoyed a breakthrough at the 1960 Winter Olympics, where France’s Jean Vuarnet won the men’s downhill competition on the company’s first all-metal skis.

Skiers wearing Rossignol skis won six out of 10 gold medals at the Calgary 1988 Winter Olympics.

Boix-Vives also served on the Organising Committee of the Albertville 1992 Winter Olympics.