An avid rugby player and fan himself, Courtin-Clarins knows the value of good height.

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In fact Courtin-Clarins has crossed paths with many interesting people in his life, including a now-notorious former professor: Dominique Strauss-Kahn.

FORBES: Lauren Bush And Clarins Head Talk FEED, Rugby And DSK

The 53-year-old French cosmetics firm has been the subject of takeover speculation ever since its founder, Jacques Courtin-Clarins, died in March.

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Ever since the death of founder Jacques Courtin-Clarins in March of last year, speculation that his company would be taken over by one of the industry giants has been rife.

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Jacques Courtin-Clarins, who created the company 54 years ago and took it public in 1984, consistently maintained his determination to keep the company independent of the consolidation that has swept over the luxury-products market.

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Until now, the company has remained strictly a family affair, but some industry observers believe Jacques' sons Christian and Olivier Courtin-Clarins--at the helm since 2000--might be more open to a sale than their father.

FORBES: Magazine Article

Until now, the company has remained strictly a family affair, but some industry observers believe Jacques' sons Christian and Olivier Courtin-Clarins--at the helm since 2000--might be more open to a sale than was their father.

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His successor, Olivier Courtin-Clarins, has stuck to that position, but with robust global demand for high-end skin-care products, its not been enough to ward off the speculation that the family would sell, assuming the right price could be obtained.

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