by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 9:10 AM ET, Tue January 20, 2026
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced that Interim President & CEO Gloria Guevara, who took on the role following Julia Simpson’s illness, has been appointed President & CEO by WTTC’s Operating Committee.
Gloria Guevara held the role and steered the future of the global travel industry from 2017 to 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic that all but halted tourism.
She has over three decades of experience across public and private sectors, as well as in government, having been the Secretary of Tourism in Mexico, Chief Special Adviser to the Saudi Arabia Minister of Tourism and more.
“I am honoured to return to WTTC after the most successful year in the sector’s history,” said Guevara. “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 & 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.”
WTTC will host its next Global Summit in Malta this October, host a cruise event in May and will continue to expand WTTC membership to small and middle-sized businesses, as well as global industry leaders.
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