BRIDGEWATER, N.J. — John Ghingo has been named president of Applegate Farms LLC, a subsidiary of Hormel Foods Corp. Most recently, Ghingo was president of plant-based foods and beverages at the WhiteWave Foods Co., which was acquired by Danone.

Previously, Ghingo held several marketing leadership positions at Mondelez International. He is a graduate of the Univ. of Notre Dame and has a master’s degree in business administration from New York Univ. Stern School of Business.

Gina Asoudegan, Applegate’s senior director of mission, will advance to the role of vice president of mission and innovation strategy. She joined the company in 2006 as director of communications. In her expanded role, she will oversee product innovations developed to create a consciously scaled supply chain, according to the company.

“I’m confident that John’s understanding of the complexities of the natural and organic food space, combined with his passion for brand building, will inspire the Applegate team to reach new heights,” said James P. Snee, chairman, president and CEO of Hormel Foods. “In order for Applegate to succeed, mission and innovation must be inextricably tied, and that's why Gina’s new role at Applegate will ensure that the Applegate mission, Changing the Meat We Eat, will continue to thrive.”