Gueikian joined Gibson in 2018, merging his business background with a passion for music and guitars
After being named as Interim CEO in May 2023, July 10th saw the Board of Directors confirm Cesar Gueikian to the role of President and CEO of Gibson Brands. Describing his work at Gibson as a “passion project,” Gueikian highlighted the support he has received from the board, team, artists, and fans.
“I am honored and humbled to take on the permanent CEO role,” said Gueikian, in a press statement. “Gibson is a passion project for me. Our board of directors, chaired by Nat Zilkha, has been incredibly supportive over the last five years, giving me an opportunity to merge my biggest passion with my business background, and I don’t take this for granted. The support from our board, team, artists, and fans has been overwhelming and I look forward to continuing the work we started with our leadership team, who always challenge me to be better.”
Gibson’s new CEO also acknowledged that being a custodian of the brand’s “epic history in music” comes with great responsibility: “Our future depends on our team’s passion and pride in the work they do, and on creative collaboration with our artists around the world across genres of music. When music is at its best, the spirit of the fan merges with the spirit of the artist, and that transcendent experience is special. I can’t wait to get started, keep momentum, and press ahead.”
Stamps of Approval
A host of Gibson artists rushed to endorse Cesar’s appointment, including Adam Jones, Lzzy Hale, Kirk Hammett, and many others. Slash remarked that he couldn’t think of “a more natural fit for CEO,” describing Cesar as “one of, if not the, smartest and most passionate Gibson guitar enthusiasts I’ve ever met.”
Black Sabbath legend Tony Iommi was equally effusive, praising Cesar for transforming the brand and noting that he “went out of his way to meet with musicians and take note of what we were saying, gathering a great team around him,” adding: “It’s now a company I’m proud to be associated with.”
Gibson’s Chief Marketing Officer, Elizabeth Heidt, was one of many members of the Gibson team to voice their support: “Cesar’s passion and commitment to our company is unparalleled, and he is the perfect person to lead us in this era. Cesar is a force and working with him has changed my life. He has been a constant supporter, pushing me to grow in the best way and providing me with the incredible opportunity to help lead our Gibson team. I am so proud to say that he is a mentor, a partner, and a friend.”
Find out more about Cesar Gueikian’s passion for guitars on Gibson TV as he sits down with Mark Agnesi and talks through his personal collection.
