Refrigerated deli salads and entree processorBlue Ridge Farms, Brooklyn, N.Y., said it hiredMark Kleinmanas CEO.

Chairman Marvin Sussman said Kleinman has driven strong growth at units of ConAgra Foods, Group Danone and other leading companies.

As executive vice president and general manager of ConAgra Foods' Hebrew National business unit, Sussman said Kleinman grew sales by 50 percent, while nearly doubling profitability and expanding distribution at major retailers including Trader Joe's, Sam's Club, and Costco. At Group Danone, Kleinman established a strongly profitable Canadian subsidiary, and rapidly accelerated growth of venerable brands like Lea & Perrins, LU cookies, and Dannon Yogurt.

Most recently, Kleinman founded and led Global Junction Group, a consultancy that helped mid-size companies develop long-term viable, yet quickly actionable growth plans. Prior to that, Kleinman led global operations for Novartis Group's Lamisil business.

Blue Ridge Farms serves eastern markets from Maine to Florida. Its product line includes refrigerated salads, entrees, side dishes and desserts. Its supermarket deli case-staple brands include Blue Ridge Farms, EZ Cuisine and Joshua's Kosher Kitchen.