Rock N Roll Sushi Appointed Rick Gestring as CEO

The restaurant chain announced a leadership transition as it continues to expand its footprint across the United States.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Dining Out

Rock N Roll Sushi Appointed Rick Gestring as CEO

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Rock N Roll Sushi has named Rick Gestring as its new CEO, succeeding Craig LeMieux. This planned transition aims to bolster the brand and support further national growth for the company.

Why it matters

The change in leadership signals a strategic focus on strengthening the brand and expanding the support provided to existing franchisees. By bringing in a leader with extensive industry experience, the company intends to maintain operational momentum across its network.

Rock N Roll Sushi currently operates more than 80 locations across the country. The company originated from a single 1,000-square-foot site located in the Mobile Mall.

The players

Rick Gestring

He is the newly appointed CEO of Rock N Roll Sushi with previous executive experience at firms including Tasty Restaurant Group and Peet's Coffee.

Craig LeMieux

He served as the CEO of Rock N Roll Sushi starting in 2023 before stepping down to facilitate the current leadership transition.

The details

Rick Gestring joins the organization following a leadership tenure at Tasty Restaurant Group and previous roles at major brands including Dunkin', Arby's, and Starbucks. The transition from Craig LeMieux, who served as CEO since 2023, is intended to ensure continuity as the chain grows.

Craig LeMieux began his term as CEO in 2023.
Rick Gestring was announced as the new CEO on October 14, 2026.

Culture Shift

This appointment reflects the broader industry trend of prioritizing operational expertise to scale dining concepts through enhanced franchisee support. The move mirrors a shift toward professionalized leadership at fast-growing regional chains aiming to achieve national status.

The leadership change is unlikely to alter daily dining menus or local restaurant operations in the immediate future. Customers can expect the brand to continue its standard service while potentially accelerating the opening of new locations in their regions.

The takeaway

Management changes at established chains often precede new growth phases or updated service models for patrons. Customers should monitor their local dining market for signs of accelerated expansion or new service initiatives.