Julia Simpson assumes the role of President and Chief Executive Officer at WTTC
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced a significant change in leadership, with Julia Simpson taking over as President and CEO from Gloria Guevara. This transition comes after four years of dedicated service from Guevara, who has been a strong voice in leading the global Travel & Tourism sector through its most difficult year in history [1][2].
Guevara, the former Tourism Secretary of Mexico, joined WTTC in August 2017. Under her leadership, WTTC and its Members have navigated a transformational agenda, including the sector's impact from the COVID-19 pandemic. Guevara has helped unite the sector and define the path for the recovery from the pandemic [3].
Arnold Donald, President and CEO of Carnival Corporation, has been appointed as the Chair of WTTC. He paid tribute to Guevara, thanking her for her immeasurable contributions to WTTC and expressing gratitude for her dedication and commitment, especially during difficult times [2]. Guevara, in turn, expressed her gratitude for the continued help and support from WTTC during the transition [1].
Julia Simpson, an Executive Committee Member of International Airlines Group (IAG), steps into the role as WTTC's new leader. She brings extensive experience in the Travel & Tourism sector, having served on the boards of British Airways, Iberia, and as Chief of Staff at International Airlines Group. Simpson also has a strong background in public service, having worked at senior levels in the UK Government, including as an advisor for the UK Prime Minister [3][4].
Simpson is eager to shape and drive the sector's ambitious agenda to achieve long-term sustainable and inclusive growth. She emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships to ensure the travel and tourism industry evolves sustainably and innovatively. Simpson will lead WTTC as it emerges from the worst crisis in its history [1][3][4].
Gloria Guevara looks forward to Simpson's leadership, believing that her solid leadership will continue to build on WTTC's legacy and lead it into its next chapter. The entire WTTC executive committee is grateful for Guevara's continued help during the transition [1].
Travel & Tourism plays a critical role in economies worldwide, accounting for 330 million jobs in 2019. As the industry looks towards recovery and growth, the leadership of Simpson and the guidance of Donald are expected to be instrumental in driving the sector forward [1].
[1] World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Press Release: WTTC Announces New President & CEO [2] Arnold Donald's Tribute to Gloria Guevara [3] Julia Simpson's Biography [4] Julia Simpson's Speeches and Interviews on Sustainable Growth and Innovation in Travel & Tourism
- Julia Simpson, whose background includes public service and extensive experience in the Travel & Tourism sector, will lead the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) as it emerges from its most difficult year in history, as announced in a recent press release.
- Arnold Donald, who served as the Chair of WTTC, praised Gloria Guevara's contributions to the organization, thanking her for her dedication and commitment during her tenure as WTTC's President and CEO.
- Gloria Guevara, prior to her role as WTTC's leader, has contributed significantly to the Travel & Tourism sector by helping unite it and defining the path for its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, as evidenced by her work with WTTC and its members.
