Gloria Guevara returns for second term to head WTTC

Gloria Guevara has returned for a second term to take the helm of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

 

She has been confirmed as president and chief executive by the global private sector industry body’s operating committee.

 

Guevara (pictured right) returns to the role she held between 2017 to 2021, including a period helping the sector’s recovery during the Covid pandemic. She has been acting as interim president and chief executive of the WTTC.

 

Former post holder Julia Simpson (pictured left) is understood to be among redundancies made in London as the WTTC plans to move its global headquarters from London to Madrid.

 

Simpson spent 14 years on the board of British Airways and Iberia, including as chief of staff at parent company International Airlines Group before assuming the top role at the WTTC from Guevara in August 2021. She also worked at senior levels in the UK government including advisor for the prime minister.

 

Guevara’s previous roles over three decades include as secretary of tourism in Mexico, chief special adviser to the Saudi Arabia tourism minister and board positions at American Express Global Business Travel, HSBC Mexico, Playa Hotels and Resorts and Palace Company.

 

The WTTC plans to expand membership with a focus on SMEs as well as high-value organisations.

 

The next WTTC global summit is planned to be held in Malta in October following a cruise event in May.

 

A statement said: “The organisation is committed to building a high-performing, globally focused team capable of meeting the sector’s evolving needs and delivering value to members worldwide.”

 

Manfredi Lefebvre (Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group), who was appointed WTTC chairman in September, said: “Gloria’s leadership and experience are exactly what WTTC needs as we enter this next chapter. 

 

“Her return enables us to strengthen our talented team, expand our membership, and drive global advocacy with renewed energy and focus. 

 

“Over 15 new companies are currently in the membership pipeline, alongside organisations returning after previously stepping away. 

 

“The strong demand from countries wanting to host our annual global summits demonstrates WTTC’s continued relevance and the value we provide to members across the travel and tourism sector.”

 

Guevara said: “I am honoured to return to WTTC after the most successful year in the sector’s history. 

 

“My priority will be to help unlock potential, investment, growth and jobs in the sector; rebuild a stronger, globally representative WTTC; deepen engagement with members; and ensure that WTTC continues to deliver world-class research, advocacy and other services to the travel and tourism industry. 

 

“Supported by our valued members, who are the most important asset of WTTC, my focus will be on delivering a dynamic new era for the organisation and fostering close collaboration between public and private sectors.”