Rock N Roll Sushi Named Rick Gestring as New CEO

The restaurant chain selected the industry veteran to lead its operations and support franchise partners.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Dining Out

Gouache-painted illustration of a pair of wooden chopsticks resting on a ceramic plate, representing restaurant leadership and hospitality. — Rock N Roll Sushi has appointed industry veteran Rick Gestring as its new CEO, tasking him with overseeing operations and supporting the brand's franchise expansion. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Rock N Roll Sushi has appointed Rick Gestring as its new CEO. Gestring, a veteran of the restaurant industry, takes over the role from Craig LeMieux.

Why it matters

The board of directors appointed Gestring to help strengthen the company's daily operations and provide better support to its existing franchise partners. The leadership change comes as the casual-dining brand plans to pursue a strategy of expanding its total restaurant locations.

Founded in 2010, the company currently operates approximately 80 casual-dining restaurants. The brand maintains its corporate headquarters in Mobile.

The players

Rick Gestring

He is the new CEO of Rock N Roll Sushi and a veteran of the restaurant industry who previously held roles at Blaze Pizza and Honey Baked Ham.

Craig LeMieux

He is the outgoing CEO of Rock N Roll Sushi who led the company starting in 2023.

Rock N Roll Sushi

This casual-dining restaurant chain was founded in 2010 and operates about 80 locations, primarily throughout the Southeast.

The details

Rick Gestring transitions into the CEO role after previously holding leadership positions at Tasty Restaurant Group, Blaze Pizza, and Honey Baked Ham. Outgoing CEO Craig LeMieux, who led the brand since 2023, worked closely with his successor to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities.

The company was originally founded in 2010.
Craig LeMieux began his tenure as CEO in 2023.
Rick Gestring was officially named the new CEO in September 2026.

Culture Shift

This move follows the broader trend of established chains adjusting executive teams to manage the logistical challenges of rapid regional scaling. It reflects a growing focus on stabilizing operations to support franchise-led expansion in the competitive casual-dining sector.

Customers can expect the brand to continue its focus on its current menu and service standards as the new leadership team settles into their roles. Residents in Mobile should look for future announcements regarding the potential addition of new restaurant locations in the area.

The takeaway

Management transitions often signal a shift in corporate priorities toward efficiency and scaled growth. Customers should watch for operational improvements or potential changes in service consistency as the brand pursues its expansion goals.