Manna Tree Names Jennifer Roach as Managing Director to Enhance Leadership in Health and Wellness Sector

Manna Tree Names Jennifer Roach as Managing Director

Manna Tree, a prominent global private equity firm, is set to strengthen its investment capabilities with the recent appointment of Jennifer Roach as Managing Director. This key decision comes as the company navigates a remarkable growth phase in the consumer health and wellness sector, responding to the rising consumer demand for products promoting longer and healthier lives.

Jennifer Roach officially joined Manna Tree on March 16, 2026, and her base in the San Francisco Bay Area marks a strategic expansion of the firm's leadership presence across major consumer centers in the United States, including New York City, Minneapolis, Austin, Denver, and now San Francisco. Her extensive background in consumer-focused investments positions her well to identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities within this vibrant ecosystem.

Before her new role at Manna Tree, Roach spent over ten years at Yellow Wood Partners, a firm focused on consumer private equity, where she led investment initiatives that encompassed health and wellness, active lifestyles, and beauty and personal care sectors. Her track record includes high-profile transactions and collaborations with leadership teams to implement operational improvements and drive sustainable growth for portfolio companies.

Ellie Rubenstein, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Manna Tree, expressed her enthusiasm about Roach's appointment: "The health and wellness market is currently undergoing an extraordinary transformation, with consumers prioritizing longevity and well-being. Jennifer's wealth of experience in consumer products and her success in sourcing and executing investments in high-growth brands make her a tremendous asset to our team."

Ross Iverson, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, also highlighted Roach's ability in collaborating closely with management teams, stating, "Her approach aligns perfectly with our mission at Manna Tree, and we anticipate her significant contributions to expanding our investment strategy across various health and wellness spaces."

Roach's prior experience at Yellow Wood Partners encompassed various successful investment efforts, including notable transactions with brands like PDC Brands and the carveout of Scholl's Wellness Company. These experiences have only fueled her excitement about joining Manna Tree. "We are just beginning to explore the potential of advancements in consumer health. Manna Tree embodies a mission-driven philosophy aimed at partnering with companies advancing health and wellness. I'm thrilled to help identify and support gifted companies in this rapidly evolving sector," Roach stated.

Roach is an alumna of the University of Rochester, where she graduated cum laude, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with additional qualifications in Business and Music. Her educational background complements her professional achievements, marrying analytical expertise with creative insights.

Manna Tree, founded in 2018 by Gabrielle Rubenstein and Ross Iverson, has already made strides in the consumer health and wellness investment landscape, capitalizing on growth-stage and buyout opportunities. The firm currently invests in a portfolio of 15 companies, including well-known names like Health-Ade, Gotham Greens, and Urban Remedy, all of which reflect Manna Tree's commitment to empowering consumers to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

The hiring of Jennifer Roach is an important step in Manna Tree's strategic evolution, aimed not only at expanding their investment horizon but also at responding to the surging demand for health-oriented products among consumers looking to enhance their lifestyles. As the demand for wellness products continues to soar, Manna Tree is well-positioned to be a leading player in fostering innovation and growth in this dynamic market.