Operations

Rock N Roll Sushi names Rick Gestring CEO

Photo: Rock N Roll Sushi

October 14, 2026

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Rock N Roll Sushi has tapped Rick Gestring to lead the 80-unit concept into its next phase of growth, focusing on brand strengthening, franchisee support and geographic expansion.

Gestring brings extensive restaurant leadership experience to the role. He most recently served as brand officer for Tasty Restaurant Group, overseeing its KFC and Taco Bell restaurant portfolio. His previous leadership roles include senior vice president of franchise operations at Honey Baked Ham, chief restaurant officer at Blaze Pizza and executive positions with Dunkin', Arby's, Starbucks, Peet's Coffee and Taco Bell.

"Rock N Roll Sushi's unique American-style sushi positioning, coupled with an electrifying restaurant experience and creative menu offerings, have created a tremendously loyal fan following," Gestring said. "I look forward to leading the brand, in collaboration with our incredible franchisees and support teams, as together we turn up the volume on growth and expansion."

Gestring succeeds Craig LeMieux, who served as CEO since 2023. The two executives worked together as part of a planned leadership transition to maintain operational continuity.

"When I joined Rock N Roll Sushi, I saw an opportunity to lead a truly distinctive brand," LeMieux said in the release. "I'm proud of what our team and franchise partners have accomplished, and I know Rick understands what makes this brand and its franchise community special."

Sam Osborne, chairman of the board for Rock N Roll Sushi, said he was thrilled about Gestring's ability to drive long-term expansion.

"Rick brings a valuable combination of restaurant expertise, franchise knowledge and a fresh perspective to Rock N Roll Sushi," Osborne said in the release. "The board is confident in his ability to build on the foundation that has been established while identifying new opportunities to strengthen the brand and support our franchise partners."

Founded in a 1,000-square-foot location inside the Mobile Mall, the original American-style sushi concept has grown to more than 80 locations across the Southeastern United States over the past decade.