Tony Hsieh, 46 had recently retired after 20 years leading Zappos, acquired by Amazon for more than $1 billion.

He also played a key part in the restoration of central Las Vegas.

Tributes poured in on social media. Zappos said that the world had “lost a tremendous visionary”.

Tony Hsieh also wrote the book Delivering Happiness, which set out his philosophy of focusing on both customer and employee care.

“Tony’s kindness and generosity touched the lives of everyone around him, and forever brightened the world,” the statement said.