News & Updates

WTTC 2025 Global Summit in Rome Announces First Speaker Lineup

As the 25th anniversary of the WTTC’s Global Summit, the gathering will bring together top leaders from the worldwide travel and tourism sectors. Discussions will center on how to fuel future growth, enhance sustainability, and drive ongoing innovation. A key moment will be the change in WTTC leadership; current Chair Greg O’Hara, who is also the founder of Certares Management LLC, will pass the reins to Manfredi Lefebvre, Chairman of Heritage Group and co-chair of Abercrombie and Kent.

Julia Simpson, President and CEO of WTTC, shared her excitement about this year’s impressive lineup of speakers and called Rome an ideal host city for an event that will guide the next era of global travel and tourism. Key conversations will dive into how the industry is changing and the innovative technologies, policies, and practices that can fuel growth while protecting our planet over the coming ten years.

Who Are the Confirmed Speakers for the 2025 WTTC Global Summit?

The first group of confirmed speakers includes a mix of visionary leaders from across the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. These influential figures bring with them decades of experience, each playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of the sector. Some of the confirmed speakers include:

1. William E. Heinecke – Founder & Chairman, Minor Hotel Group
2. Matthew Upchurch – Founder & CEO, Virtuoso
3. Jane Sun – CEO, Trip.com Group
4. Gaurav Bhatnagar – Co-Founder, TBO.Com
5. Jerry Inzerillo – Group CEO, Diriyah Company
6. Pierfrancesco Vago – Executive Chairman of Cruise, MSC Cruises
7. Paolo Barletta – CEO, Arsenale Spa
8. Andrea Grisdale – CEO & Sole Founder, IC Bellagio
9. Desiree Bollier – Chair & Global Chief Merchant, The Bicester Collection
10. Anthony Capuano – CEO, Marriott International
11. Caroline Beteta – President & CEO, Visit California
12. Christie Travers-Smith – Head of Retail & Travel, EMEA Partnerships Solutions, Google Inc
13. Elie Maalouf – Global CEO, InterContinental Hotels Group
14. Decius Valmorbida Menezes – President, Travel, Amadeus
15. Zubin Karkaria – Founder & CEO, VFS Global
16. Puneet Chhatwal – CEO, Indian Hotels Company
17. Julie Shainock – Global Managing Director – Travel, Transport & Hospitality Industry, Microsoft
18. Hashil Al Mahrouqi – CEO, OMRAN Group
19. Massimo Caputi – President & Owner, Terme & Spa Italia

These individuals represent a broad cross-section of the industry, from hospitality to technology, and their insights will provide invaluable perspectives on the future of global tourism.

The Significance of the 2025 WTTC Global Summit

The WTTC’s annual summit serves as a key platform for discussing the critical issues facing the travel and tourism industry. With sustainability and innovation at the forefront of the industry’s priorities, the summit in Rome will be no exception. The event will address how global travel can adapt to challenges such as climate change, as well as the ongoing transformation brought on by digital technologies and evolving traveler preferences.

Rome, a city that embodies both rich history and modern innovation, serves as the perfect backdrop for these important conversations. The city’s central role in European and global tourism, coupled with its stunning venues, will undoubtedly contribute to a memorable and impactful summit experience.

What Can Attendees Expect at the Summit?

Attendees can look forward to a dynamic program filled with presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. As industry leaders and innovators gather to discuss the pressing topics facing the sector, delegates will gain access to the latest trends, strategies, and insights driving the future of travel. The summit will also provide a unique opportunity for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and explore new business partnerships.

With sustainability as a key theme, the summit will focus on actionable strategies for reducing the environmental impact of travel while continuing to drive growth in the sector. Speakers will discuss how the travel industry can leverage technology to improve operational efficiency and enhance the overall customer experience.

Looking Ahead: More Announcements to Come

While the initial lineup of speakers is already impressive, the WTTC has hinted that more announcements will follow in the coming weeks. As the event draws nearer, more industry leaders will be confirmed, further strengthening the summit’s ability to provide relevant and cutting-edge insights.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 WTTC Global Summit is set to become an unforgettable gathering that unites the sharpest experts in travel and tourism around one mission: to power growth that is smart, sustainable, and truly remarkable. Hosted in the timeless city of Rome, the summit offers a one-of-a-kind stage where global leaders can exchange knowledge, team up on practical solutions, and chart a bold course for travel over the next ten years.

Anyone with a stake in tourism—from policymakers to hospitality innovators—will find the summit indispensable. Attendees can spot the trends that will redefine the industry and forge international partnerships that open new doors. As the travel landscape keeps changing, the 2025 Global Summit will be the must-attend crossroads for leaders committed to creating a smarter, greener, and more connected future for travel worldwide.

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