Gladstone Commercial Corporation has reshaped its top leadership, with longtime chief executive David Gladstone stepping down as CEO effective immediately while remaining chairman of the board and a member of the investment committee. Arthur “Buzz” Cooper, who has been president since 2022 and has been with the Gladstone organization since 2001, has taken over as chief executive and will now serve as both CEO and president.
The company also elevated John Sateri, a 20-year Gladstone veteran and current investment committee member, to chief investment officer. Gary Gerson, who has been chief financial officer and assistant treasurer since 2021 and previously served as treasurer from 2006 to 2012, was named executive vice president while retaining his existing finance roles. Ryan Carter, a managing director since 2021, was also promoted to executive vice president.
The succession plan marks a formal split between the chairman and CEO roles. Gladstone said the move is intended to support continuity, stability and governance as the company continues to expand its portfolio.
Gladstone Commercial said it has grown into a REIT with more than 150 properties as of December 31, 2025, up from its start as an IPO-backed company in 2003. The portfolio is concentrated in single-tenant net leased industrial properties nationwide and is diversified across tenants, industries and geographies.
David Gladstone said he has led the company for more than 23 years and described the announcement as a milestone for the Gladstone family of funds, which is celebrating its 25th year in business. Walter Wilkinson, the board’s lead independent director, said Gladstone built the company from its IPO into the REIT it is today. Cooper said he is taking on the CEO role with a team strengthened by the promotions of Gerson and Carter. Following these announcements, the company's shares moved 1.12%, and are now trading at a price of $11.72. If you want to know more, read the company's complete 8-K report here.
