WTTC Global Team Announced in Madrid

Global Leadership Expansion at WTTC

World Travel & Tourism Council has introduced its updated global leadership team, bringing together professionals from across the travel and tourism sector, including industry executives, policy specialists, and former public-sector leaders.

The development reflects WTTC’s effort to align its structure with the evolving needs of the global travel industry. The organization’s team now includes representatives from 21 nationalities across five continents, highlighting a mix of regional perspectives and sector experience.

Leadership structure and roles

The updated leadership team brings together individuals from key areas, including business development, advocacy, destinations, communications, and finance.

Esteban Velásquez Wilhelm, Executive Vice President – Business Development and Members, will lead commercial strategy, member engagement, and partnerships.

Hon. Najib Balala, Executive Vice President – Advocacy, Government Affairs and Research, will oversee policy engagement and research, drawing on his experience in public-sector tourism leadership.

Maribel Rodríguez Gamero, Executive Vice President – Destinations, will work with destination stakeholders globally, focusing on development and representation.

Sarah Jukes, Vice President – Strategic Communications and Content, will lead messaging and content strategy to support WTTC’s engagement with governments and industry stakeholders.

Julio Solvas, Chief Financial Officer, will manage financial planning, governance, and reporting across the organisation.

The broader team also includes professionals across policy, research, finance, partnerships, and regional leadership roles, supporting WTTC’s operations across multiple markets.

A wider global presence

WTTC continues to operate from its base in Madrid, with regional directors located across Latin America and the Caribbean, North Asia, South-East Asia, the Middle East, Africa, North America, and Europe. This structure is intended to strengthen engagement with members, destinations, and governments while improving the organisation’s understanding of regional dynamics.

Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of WTTC, said the updated team reflects the global nature of the travel and tourism sector, bringing together a range of perspectives and expertise to support industry growth.

Manfredi Lefebvre, Chairman of WTTC, added that the organisation’s leadership is positioned to contribute to ongoing discussions around the future of travel and tourism.

With its updated structure and expanded regional presence, WTTC continues its focus on supporting sector growth, encouraging collaboration, and contributing to employment and policy development within travel and tourism.

For more travel and tourism content, follow Safari India.