A New Chapter for Gibson: Cesar Gueikian Steps Down as CEO but Remains Part of the Legendary Guitar Brand

Cesar Gueikian, who served as Brand President of Gibson before becoming the company’s CEO, will continue to serve on the Board of Directors while also remaining a global artist ambassador for the iconic guitar manufacturer.

Gibson President and Chief Executive Officer Cesar Gueikian has officially announced his decision to step down from his executive leadership roles.

According to an official press release issued by Gibson, his tenure as President and CEO will conclude on July 31. After that date, Gueikian will continue supporting the company as a member of its Board of Directors. In addition, he will maintain his close relationship with the brand’s artists by serving as Global Artist Ambassador.

During the search for a permanent successor, Gibson’s Chief Commercial Officer, Anne Rohosy, will assume the role of Interim President and Chief Executive Officer.

Executive Chairman of the Gibson Board of Directors, Nat Zilkha, praised Cesar Gueikian for his years of leadership and dedication.

“For the past thirteen years, Cesar has devoted his passion, creativity, and unwavering commitment to Gibson. On behalf of the Board of Directors, we sincerely thank him for his transformational leadership and for the vital role he played in rebuilding the company's foundation.

Cesar shared with us that he wanted to step away from the day-to-day operational responsibilities so he could focus on what has always inspired him most—working directly with artists and staying closely connected to music itself.

We are delighted that he will continue to be an important part of the Gibson family as a Board member, strategic advisor, and Global Artist Ambassador.”

Cesar Gueikian also reflected on his decision in a personal statement.

“Gibson is part of my DNA. It has been the greatest honor of my life to help lead this legendary company and to work every day alongside the incredible people who make Gibson what it is.

Gibson holds a special place in the hearts of musicians, fans, and everyone who has ever picked up a guitar and experienced that unique connection with the instrument.

I’m incredibly proud of everything we’ve accomplished together—our talented team, our company culture, our artist relationships, and our global community of musicians and fans.

I truly hope my time with Gibson will be remembered as a period of progress, innovation, and positive transformation.

I have complete confidence in Anne and in the future of this company. As I begin my next chapter as a shareholder, Board member, and Global Artist Ambassador, I’m excited to continue supporting Gibson. I firmly believe the company’s greatest years are still ahead.”

Cesar Gueikian joined Gibson in 2018, at a pivotal time when the legendary guitar maker was emerging from bankruptcy and moving beyond the controversial leadership era of former CEO Henry Juszkiewicz.

He initially came aboard as the company’s Chief Merchant Officer, where he quickly made a significant impact on the direction of the brand.

One of his most notable early decisions was recruiting respected vintage guitar expert Mark Agnesi away from the renowned Los Angeles guitar store Norman's Rare Guitars. Under Gueikian’s leadership, Agnesi became Gibson’s Director of Brand Experience, helping strengthen the company's connection with players and collectors.

In 2021, Cesar Gueikian was promoted to Brand President, and two years later, following the departure of James "JC" Curleigh, he was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Gibson.

As CEO, Gueikian adopted a highly hands-on leadership style. He worked directly with many of the company’s top artists, personally participated in the development of new guitar models, introduced new releases himself, and even built instruments for several high-profile musicians.

He also collaborated on original music projects with some of the biggest names associated with Gibson, reinforcing his close relationship with the artist community.

One of those musicians, legendary guitarist Slash, also shared his thoughts on Cesar Gueikian’s departure from the CEO position.

“Cesar played a crucial role in revitalizing Gibson more than a decade ago. He brought quality, integrity, and genuine passion back into the company while working tirelessly to preserve the brand’s heritage and reputation.

He also inspired the employees and the skilled craftspeople who build these instruments. Watching the company evolve under his leadership has been truly exciting.

For Cesar, the guitars always came first—how they were built, how they looked, and what made them exceptional instruments. Keeping that philosophy at the center of Gibson’s mission has been one of his greatest achievements.

The results of his work have been nothing short of remarkable.”