Crabtree & Evelyn, the Connecticut-based maker of bath and body products, has appointed a former Hinckley, Allen & Snyder partner to the post of global general counsel.

Brent R. Canning most recently served as assistant general counsel at the company based in Woodstock, in the northeast corner of Connecticut. Before arriving at Crabtree & Evelyn in 2011, he was a litigation partner at Hinckley Allen, focusing on intellectual property and commercial litigation. The Hartford native, who started with Hinckley Allen in 1998, represented businesses and individuals in disputes before state and federal courts and arbitration panels.

In his new position, he will be responsible for the global legal strategy of the Crabtree & Evelyn group of companies and will report directly to the global chief executive officer. Founded in 1972, Crabtree & Evelyn has evolved from a small, family-run business specializing in fine soaps to an international company known for its original fragrances, upscale toiletries and gourmet foods.