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The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) today announced a new chapter for its global leadership and team, bringing together executives and former C-suite leaders, industry experts, and Ministers from across the Travel & Tourism industry to reflect the diversity and international nature of the private and public sector.
The leadership team demonstrates WTTC’s evolution to meet the current and future needs of the global private sector, with a broader mix of nationalities and expertise spanning different elements of the sector. WTTC’s expanding team features 21 nationalities across five continents, including British, Spanish, Mexican, Saudi Arabian, Indian, Chinese and Kenyan.
A strengthened Global Leadership team
WTTC’s new leadership structure combines deep expertise across key strategic priorities:
Esteban Velásquez Wilhelm, Executive Vice President, Business Development and Members leads global commercial strategy, member engagement, and strategic partnerships. With more than 25 years of experience across the global travel, hospitality, and travel technology sectors as former CEO of Karisma Hotels and Price Travel, Esteban brings a strong track record in driving growth and long-term value creation.
Hon. Najib Balala, Executive Vice President, Advocacy, Government Affairs and Research leads WTTC’s global advocacy agenda, government engagement, and policy research. A globally recognised public-sector leader, and former Tourism Minister of Kenya for more than 12 years, Najib brings extensive experience in shaping national and international tourism policy and strengthening enabling environments for Travel & Tourism growth.
Maribel Rodríguez Gamero, Executive Vice President, Destinations works closely with destination leaders worldwide to support their growth and increase their representation in WTTC. With over 25 years of international experience spanning aviation, hospitality, global events and destination development, Maribel brings deep expertise in shaping destination strategy and strengthening global tourism ecosystems.
Sarah Jukes, Vice President, Strategic Communications and Content oversees messaging and content development to amplify the voice of Travel & Tourism and position WTTC’s advocacy efforts. Sarah re-joins WTTC from Burson, London and brings significant experience in strategic communications, international affairs and thought leadership across three continents, supporting engagement with governments, global institutions, and key stakeholders.
Julio Solvas, Chief Financial Officer oversees WTTC’s global financial strategy, governance, planning and reporting. With more than three decades of experience in multinational and travel-related organisations, Julio brings expertise in financial management, multi-country operations and supporting organisational growth.
Caroline Moultrie, Strategic Lead, Together in Travel
Christopher Imbsen, Vice President of Policy
Lola Uña Cárdenas, Vice President of Government Affairs
Natalie Duggal, Finance Director
Nejc Jus, Research Director
Esmeralda Rios, Chief of Staff
Pablo Dopacio, Human Resources Manager
Marcela Lizarraga, Strategic Partnership Director
Mansor Waleed Al Abdullah, Regional Director Middle East
Adolfo Reyes, Europe Membership & Engagement Director
Juan Antonio Arellano, Regional Director LATAM
Roberto Palais, Regional Director Europe & Africa Destinations
Sarah Wang, Regional Director Greater China
Daniela Wagner, Commercial Director
A truly global organisation
WTTC’s operations are based in Madrid, with regional directors located across Latin America & the Caribbean, North Asia, South-East Asia, the Middle East, Africa, North America, and Europe. This expanded regional presence strengthens the organisation’s relevance and engagement with both Members and destinations. It also enhances WTTC’s ability to understand local market dynamics, deepen relationships with key stakeholders, and deliver more impactful advocacy and research across the global Travel & Tourism sector.
Gloria Guevara, President & CEO, WTTC added: “We have built a leadership team that reflects the current and future needs and global nature of Travel & Tourism, with a broader mix of nationalities, expertise and perspectives than ever before. This diversity strengthens our ability to support our members, work with governments and deliver the insights and advocacy needed to drive sustainable growth across the sector.”
Manfredi Lefebvre, WTTC Chairman, said: “I’m proud of the WTTC global team that brings together exceptional experience from across the world, positioning WTTC to play an even more influential role in shaping the future of Travel & Tourism.”
With a strengthened leadership structure and expanded global footprint, WTTC is well positioned to continue advancing its mission: supporting the growth of Travel & Tourism, driving job creation and fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors.
