Ella’s Kitchen owner Hain Celestial has named Chris Jenkins as its new global head of impact as the business aims to reinforce its commitment to growing purpose-driven brands.

The global health and wellness company, whose portfolio includes certified B Corp brands Ella’s Kitchen, Linda McCartney and Cully & Sully, appointed Jenkins to the role which will see him oversee Hain’s global impact strategy.

Among other responsibilities, the position will prioritise the growth of purpose-driven brands, and champion other sustainability and wellbeing initiatives.

Hain Celestial chief legal and corporate affairs officer Kristy Meringolo said: “We are thrilled to appoint Chris to Global Head of Impact as an important next step in our journey to build purpose-driven, better-for-you brands that have a positive impact on people and planet.”

“With Chris’ successful track record advancing purpose and ESG work for Ella’s Kitchen, he will no doubt bring strong leadership and innovative thinking to advance our global strategy and drive greater impact across our brands and end-to-end value chain.”

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Jenkins’ appointment comes after a decade of working with Ella’s Kitchen.

He said: “I am pleased to have been trusted to build on the brilliant impact work already delivered by my colleagues at Hain Celestial over the years.”

“I have always believed that if we are to address social and environmental challenges, business needs to be part of that solution and lead the change. We have a strong base to build on as we work together to grow our impact and deliver meaningful change for people, communities, and the planet, on a global scale.”

The new appointment follows a series of senior departures at baby food firm Ella’s Kitchen late last year.

In January, the company announced its boss Will Howard, who only took the reins as managing director in September when former CEO Mark Cuddigan departed to join meat-alternative brand This, would be stepping down “to take up a new opportunity outside of the business”.

Tim Collins, currently vice president and general manger for Hain Celestial Group, took over from Howard in March this year.