Gloria Guevara Returns as WTTC President and CEO: Driving Global Tourism Growth

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January 19, 2026

Introduction to Gloria Guevara and Her New Role

Gloria Guevara, a seasoned professional with over three decades of experience in both public and private sectors of the tourism industry, has been reappointed as President and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The announcement was made on Monday in Madrid, Spain, the new headquarters of the private sector’s leading travel and tourism organization.

Guevara’s Previous Leadership and Achievements

Guevara previously held the position from 2017 to 2021, during which she demonstrated strategic vision, consensus-building skills, and a collaborative approach that proved crucial in addressing the industry’s international challenges.

  • Secretary of Tourism for Mexico
  • Special Advisor to the Minister of Tourism in Saudi Arabia
  • Special Advisor on Governmental Affairs at Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health
  • Advisor in global companies such as AMEX Global Business Travel, HSBC Mexico, Playa Hotels & Resorts, and Palace Company

Last year, she participated in the selection process for the new UNWTO leader, receiving support from the federal government.

Guevara’s Recent Activities and Future Plans

As one of her first activities, Guevara attended a working meeting of the Union of Mexican Tourism Secretaries (ASETUR) during FITUR, Madrid’s International Tourism Fair. She shared a global perspective on international tourism challenges and opportunities, as well as Mexico’s significance as a leading global tourism power.

Recognition of Guevara’s Career

Following her appointment, Manfredi Lefebvre, Chairman of WTTC’s Board of Directors, stated: “Gloria’s leadership and experience are precisely what WTTC needs for this new phase. Her return will enable us to strengthen our team, expand our membership, and reinforce our global representation with renewed energy.”

WTTC’s Future Agenda Under Guevara’s Leadership

According to the Council, Guevara’s leadership will continue to push for a global agenda focused on sustainable tourism growth, investment attraction, talent development, and public-private sector collaboration. This will solidify WTTC’s position as one of the most influential voices in the global tourism industry.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who is Gloria Guevara? Gloria Guevara is a highly experienced tourism professional with over 30 years of experience in both public and private sectors. She previously served as Mexico’s Secretary of Tourism, advised the Saudi Arabian Minister of Tourism, and worked at Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health.
  • What is her new role? Gloria Guevara has been reappointed as President and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
  • Why is her return significant? Her strategic vision, consensus-building skills, and collaborative approach will strengthen WTTC’s team, expand its membership, and reinforce global representation.
  • What is WTTC’s future agenda? Under Guevara’s leadership, WTTC will focus on sustainable tourism growth, investment attraction, talent development, and public-private sector collaboration.