Byers, 48, began his role in February 2014 after a position at the British Council where he was managing director of its Programmes and Projects unit, a multi-million pound commercial contracting unit delivering services for clients including the European Union, and the UK and Scottish governments.

Steve Philips, chair of English UK said his passing was “an enormous shock to all of us who have worked closely with Eddie”.

Byers’s career reflected his deep commitment to the UK’s education sector

He went on to say, “English UK has benefitted enormously from his vision, drive and experience, and the organisation is very different to the one he joined.”

During his short time at the organisation, Byers made an effort to visit as many of its 480 accredited members as he could, reaching over a third, said Phillips.

Byers also had a clear mandate to change the organisation’s strategy by placing more emphasis on direct bookings after two seasons of dropping numbers and strengthening member engagement.

Byers’s career reflected his deep commitment to the UK’s education sector. Before holding positions at the British Council and English UK, he was also director of Education UK which brought together more than 300 universities and businesses to promote the UK’s education offer and was also responsible for the Erasmus and Comenius scholarship and exchange programmes.

A proud Scotsman, he also spent six years as director of industry engagement for VisitScotland, helping to merge 15 area tourist boards, stimulating partnership working and developing increased commercial activity.

Industry players have expressed their condolences and reflected on his contribution to the sector on social media.

“He defended the profession with passion and encouraged others to do so,” Victoria Boobyer, a freelance ELT writer posted on Facebook.

Hannah Alexander-Wright, a board member and chair of English UK London said on Facebook: “Very sad. A great Chief Exec and a lovely person.”

“Sad to hear this news. Met Eddie a few times and he always had an ear to listen and a smile to give,” posted Ben Delaney international sales manager for Europe & Latin America at Malvern House International.

Meanwhile IHLondon tweeted: “Extremely sad to hear that Eddie Byers, English UK’s Chief Executive, has passed away. Condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.”

Byers is survived by his wife and two children. English UK is considering ways in which members, colleagues and friends can pay tribute to him, and will provide updates as soon as possible.

Its 2015 member roadshow programme, which was due to visit Bournemouth, London, Edinburgh and Liverpool, has been postponed until 2016.