The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced a temporary change in leadership ahead of its Global Summit, taking place in Rome from 28–30 September. Julia Simpson, WTTC President and CEO, will be unable to attend due to illness. The organisation and its members have extended their best wishes for her swift recovery.
To ensure continuity, the WTTC board has invited Gloria Guevara, former President and CEO, to return as interim CEO through the end of the summit. The Council and its members expressed their gratitude for her support, highlighting her longstanding international experience in the travel and tourism sector.
Greg O’Hara, WTTC Chair, said: “I would like to send Julia my best wishes for a speedy recovery and thank Gloria for stepping in at such a crucial moment. I am confident she will lead the Global Summit to great success”. Manfredi Lefebvre, WTTC Chair Elect, added: “WTTC and its members wish Julia Simpson a quick recovery and thank Gloria for supporting the organisation in her absence. Gloria brings decades of experience and is recognised as one of the sector’s most respected leaders”.
For her part, Gloria Guevara commented: “It is an honour to support the organisation and its members at this time and to lead the Global Summit in Rome. I send my best wishes to Julia”. The Global Summit in Rome is among the most significant international gatherings for the travel and tourism industry, bringing together senior government representatives, business leaders and key stakeholders from across the sector.
Photo credits: WTTC
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