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

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January 19, 2026

Background and Relevance of Gloria Guevara

Gloria Guevara, a seasoned professional with over three decades of experience in both public and private sectors of the tourism industry, has been appointed as the new 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 of WTTC President and CEO from 2017 to 2021. Her leadership was characterized by strategic vision, proven ability to build consensus, and a collaborative approach that has been 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 Initial Activities and Recognition

In her first activities as CEO, Guevara attended a working meeting of the Union of Mexican Tourism Secretaries (ASETUR) during FITUR, Madrid’s International Tourism Fair, which starts on January 21. She shared a global perspective on international tourism challenges and opportunities, as well as Mexico’s significance as a leading global tourism power.

Support and Future Goals

WTTC’s Board Chairman, Manfredi Lefebvre, expressed confidence in Guevara’s leadership and experience, stating that her return will strengthen the WTTC team, expand membership, and reinforce global representation with renewed energy.

Under Guevara’s leadership, the WTTC will continue to promote a global agenda focused on sustainable tourism growth, investment attraction, talent development, and public-private sector collaboration. This will further establish the WTTC 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 the WTTC President and CEO from 2017 to 2021.
  • What are her key achievements? Guevara is recognized for her strategic vision, consensus-building skills, and collaborative approach in addressing international tourism challenges.
  • What is her role now? Gloria Guevara has been appointed as the new President and CEO of the WTTC, tasked with driving sustainable tourism growth, attracting investment, developing talent, and fostering public-private collaboration.
  • Why is her return significant? Her return is expected to strengthen the WTTC team, expand membership, and reinforce global representation with renewed energy.