A new Schiff base oriented Co(III) complex, (CoL)Cl center dot 4H(2)O (L = Schiff base), has been synthesized by careful design of the Schiff base ligand thorough oxidation of Co(II) to Co(III) during the reaction process. The complex has been characterized by single-crystal X-ray structure analysis and various spectral analyses. Structure analysis reveals that this monomeric complex crystallizes in triclinic P-1 space group. Supramolecular hydrogen bonding interactions among the guest water Molecules and counter anion chloride leads to the formation of 1D water-chloride chain. A polymer anchored heterogeneous cobalt complex has been synthesized, characterized by various physicochemical techniques and successfully used for the oxidation of alkenes and sulfides using H2O2 as oxygen source. The influence of the various reaction parameters has been studied. The heterogeneous cobalt complex can be reused seven times without any significant loss in its catalytic activity. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.