Wednesday, May 21, 2025

The has announced that , chairman of Heritage Group and co-chair of luxury travel company Abercrombie & Kent, will take over as Chair in September 2025 during the WTTC’s 25th Global Summit in Rome. Lefebvre, a seasoned veteran with over four decades of experience in the cruise and leisure sectors, has been an active member of WTTC for more than 20 years, making him one of the most respected figures in the global travel industry.

He will succeed the current Chair, , founder and senior managing director of Certares Management LLC, who has held the position since November 2023. O’Hara’s leadership helped navigate the WTTC through a crucial period of recovery and growth for the travel sector following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lefebvre is credited with transforming Silversea Cruises into a global leader in luxury cruising. Today, he oversees Heritage Group, which invests across diverse sectors including biotechnology, energy transition, real estate, and premium spirits. His vast experience positions him well to steer WTTC as it continues its mission to promote sustainable tourism and economic growth worldwide.

The current Chair praised Lefebvre’s appointment, highlighting his deep commitment and dedication to the travel industry. “Serving WTTC and our members has been a privilege,” he said, “and I am delighted to be handing the baton to Manfredi, a renowned force in the global Travel & Tourism sector.”

Lefebvre expressed his enthusiasm for taking on the role, sharing that his long-standing membership and passion for the sector inspire his vision for the future of WTTC. WTTC President and CEO welcomed Lefebvre warmly, emphasizing his decades of experience and leadership qualities, and expressed confidence that under his guidance, the council will achieve unprecedented success in a sector that consistently outpaces the global economy.

Manfredi Lefebvre’s career is marked by visionary leadership and a pioneering spirit. His transformative work with Silversea Cruises established it as a premier luxury cruise brand, redefining passenger experience and operational excellence. Today, as chairman of Heritage Group, Lefebvre applies his strategic insight to various industries, demonstrating his versatile approach to business growth and sustainability.

His tenure with WTTC has been influential, contributing to key initiatives that promote sustainable travel, innovation, and global cooperation. His appointment as Chair is expected to infuse the council with renewed energy and forward-thinking strategies that align with the changing landscape of travel.

The World Travel & Tourism Council serves as a critical voice for the global travel industry, representing the sector’s interests in policy discussions, economic forums, and sustainability efforts. It unites leaders from airlines, hospitality, governments, and service providers to address challenges and promote opportunities that benefit economies and communities worldwide.

In the wake of the global pandemic, WTTC has played a pivotal role in advocating for safe and responsible travel, pushing for innovations that enhance passenger experiences while reducing environmental impacts. The council’s 25th Global Summit in Rome will be a landmark event, showcasing new leadership and charting the future direction of global tourism.

Under Lefebvre’s leadership, the WTTC is poised to continue championing sustainable growth and technological innovation. The travel sector is evolving rapidly, with travelers demanding more personalized, eco-friendly, and immersive experiences. Lefebvre’s expertise in luxury travel and diversified investments uniquely positions him to guide WTTC’s efforts in meeting these expectations.

Key areas of focus are expected to include digital transformation, climate action, and community engagement, ensuring that tourism remains a resilient and inclusive force for economic development.

The outgoing Chair has left a strong legacy, guiding the council through recovery and growth phases while building robust partnerships worldwide. The seamless transition to Lefebvre reflects WTTC’s commitment to continuity and progress, ensuring the council remains a leading advocate for global travel.

With his broad network and experience, Lefebvre is expected to expand WTTC’s influence, forging new alliances and spearheading initiatives that balance profitability with social and environmental responsibility.

The announcement of Manfredi Lefebvre as WTTC’s new Chair marks a promising new chapter for the global travel and tourism sector. His proven track record in luxury travel, business innovation, and commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with the council’s mission.

As WTTC prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary at the Rome summit, the global travel community looks forward to fresh ideas, leadership, and collaborative efforts that will drive the industry forward in the face of evolving challenges and opportunities.

With a visionary leader at the helm, WTTC is set to continue championing sustainable, inclusive, and innovative tourism that benefits travelers, businesses, and destinations worldwide.