by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 9:05 AM ET, Mon September 29, 2025
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has appointed Manfredi Lefebvre as its new Chair, officially announced during the opening ceremony of the Council’s 25th Global Summit in Rome.
Manfredi Lefebvre (Photo Credit: LinkedIn)
Lefebvre, one of the most recognized figures in global travel, succeeds Greg O’Hara, who has led the organization since November 2023.
"It has been an incredible honour to serve as Chair of WTTC over the past two years, working alongside our Members to champion one of the world’s most dynamic sectors," O’Hara said, reflecting on his tenure.
"Travel & Tourism is an extraordinary force for good, creating jobs, driving growth, and connecting people across cultures. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together, and I know that under Manfredi’s leadership WTTC will continue to go from strength to strength. His vision, passion, and proven track record make him the ideal Chair to guide the Council into its next chapter."
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Lefebvre currently serves as executive chairman of Heritage Group and Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group.
He is best known for his role as executive chairman of Silversea Cruises, a company founded by his father, before the Royal Caribbean Group acquired the brand in 2018.
"As I step into the role of WTTC Chair today, I am both honoured and invigorated," Lefebvre said during the ceremony.
"The World Travel and Tourism Council has been a cornerstone of our industry, championing resilience and progress.
"Travel is not just an industry; it is a profound passion that connects people. Together with our Members, I am committed to driving forward and responsible innovation, ensuring our sector not only recovers but thrives in the new world we are shaping. I extend my deepest gratitude to Greg for his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment."
WTTC interim CEO Gloria Guevara welcomed the appointment, "I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Greg for steering WTTC with distinction and warmly welcome Manfredi as WTTC’s new Chair," she said.
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"His unparalleled experience across cruise, leisure, luxury travel, and diversified investments will guide WTTC’s mission of realising the potential of Travel & Tourism globally, which is set for another record-breaking year, contributing $2.1TN to the global economy in 2025."
Lefebvre also holds senior positions outside the travel sector, including vice-chairman of Arqit Quantum and global senior advisor at Rothschild & Co.
His contributions have been recognized with honours such as the Orders of Saint Charles and Grimaldi, and he serves as Honorary Consul of Ecuador in Monaco.
The Global Summit is being hosted in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT, the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region, with additional support from partners including MSC Group, Trip.com Group, Chase Travel, and Arsenale Spa.
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