WTTC President & CEO Unable to Lead Global Summit

by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 10:25 AM ET, Mon September 8, 2025

The World Travel & Tourism Council has announced that President & CEO Julia Simpson will be unable to attend the Global Summit being held in Rome later this month due to illness. 

In the announcement, WTTC said that Gloria Guevara, the former President & CEO, will lead the event on an interim basis. 

Gloria Guevara, WTTC interim CEO said: “I am honoured to support the organisation and its Members during this time and lead the Global Summit in Rome. I send my best wishes to Julia."

The Global Summit is the 25th iteration of the event, and will be held September 28th through September 30th at the Auditorium Parco della Musica. 

Guest speakers include leaders of WTTC member organizations, including Matthew Upchurch, Founder & CEO of Virtuoso and Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of Cruise at MSC Cruises. 

Greg O’Hara, WTTC Chair said: “I’d like to send Julia my best wishes for her speedy recovery and would also like to thank Gloria for stepping in at such a crucial time. I am sure that Gloria will lead the Global Summit to great success.”

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