ROCHESTER . NEW YORK—  Xerox CEO John Visentin has unexpectedly passed away due to complications from an ongoing illness. In a statement released , the manufacturer said: “The Xerox family is profoundly saddened by this untimely event and extends its heartfelt condolences to John’s wife, his five daughters and his family. James Nelson, chairman of Xerox’s board of directors, paid tribute: “Since joining the company in May 2018, John drove Xerox forward. “Since joining Xerox in May 2018, John was a visionary leader who navigated the company through unprecedented times and challenges. Well-known and respected throughout the industry, his strategy ensured Xerox’s leadership position." Visentin replaced former Xerox CEO Jeff Jacobson in May 2018 after Jacobson and six other members of the Xerox board resigned. His background included executive roles at HP and venture capital firm Apollo Global Management. He had worked for activist investor Carl Icahn’s firm Icahn Enterprises as a senior consultant in the months before Icahn and fellow investor Darwin Deason successfully campaigned against Fujifilm's proposed takeover of Xerox, which resulted in Visentin becoming Xerox CEO.