Gloria Guevara appointed interim head of WTTC due to president’s illness

06-09-25

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) announced on Friday, September 5, 2025, from London, that its President and CEO, Julia Simpson, will not be able to attend the highly anticipated Global Summit to be held in Rome from September 28 to 30 due to an illness that has placed her on medical leave. WTTC expressed its regret over this unexpected absence and extended its best wishes for Simpson’s recovery, noting her distinguished career in the aviation and tourism sector.

In light of this situation, the organization has appointed Gloria Guevara as interim CEO. Guevara previously served as President and CEO of WTTC, and now returns to lead the institution with the mandate of steering it through the conclusion of the Rome Global Summit. This appointment not only responds to the immediate need for operational continuity but also underscores WTTC’s confidence in her experience and reputation as a refined and respected figure within the global tourism industry.

According to Greg O’Hara, Chairman of WTTC, “We wish Julia a speedy recovery and are deeply grateful to Gloria for taking on this role at such a crucial moment. I am convinced she will lead the Summit to great success.” Manfredi Lefebvre, WTTC’s Chairman-elect, added: “WTTC and its members wish Julia a fast recovery and thank Gloria Guevara for her collaboration in her absence. She brings decades of experience and is one of the most respected leaders in the sector.”

In her first reaction after the appointment, Guevara said she was honored by the opportunity to collaborate with the organization and its members during this period, while also extending her best wishes for Simpson’s swift recovery.

The announcement has attracted great interest in the industry media. Reports highlight that after stepping down in 2021 following her successful leadership of a Summit in Cancún, Mexico, Guevara took on the role of Senior Advisor to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism, a position she left on June 30, 2024. Furthermore, in 2025 she ran for the post of Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), although she was defeated by the candidate from the UAE.

The absence of Julia Simpson and Guevara’s interim return coincide with the staging of a pivotal summit for the industry. The Global Summit in Rome, to be held in an iconic cultural venue of the city, will bring together world tourism leaders and key players to discuss crucial topics such as innovation, digitalization, sustainability, and post-pandemic recovery. The line-up of speakers includes high-profile industry figures such as Jane Sun (Trip.com), Anthony Capuano (Marriott), Elie Maalouf (IHG), as well as executives from Microsoft, Google, Amadeus, among others.

Guevara’s return brings stability and confidence at a vital moment for the sector. Her interim appointment ensures the strategic direction of WTTC while guaranteeing continuity for one of the most significant events on the global tourism agenda.

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