Insights From the C-Suite: Leyla Osorio, CEO and Co-Founder, Global Cruises

As part of a new, members-only series, Women Leading Travel & Hospitality is asking industry executives about their professional journeys, mentorship, how they stay up-to-date on the latest industry technology and trends, how they take care of themselves, and so much more. This week, insight comes from Leyla Osorio, CEO and co-founder of Global Cruises. We asked Leyla a series of questions about her career journey, her leadership philosophy, empowering her teams, and more.

Women Leading Travel & Hospitality: What is your leadership philosophy and how do you embody it?
Leyla Osorio: My leadership philosophy is rooted in leading by example and discipline. I believe that effective leadership starts with setting an example. I make it a priority to demonstrate the values, work ethic and commitment I expect from my team.

I embody this philosophy by never asking my team to do something I wouldn’t do myself. Whether it's taking on challenging tasks, maintaining high performance, or staying disciplined in our approach, I lead with integrity and consistency to inspire confidence and motivate my team to achieve our shared goals.

WLT&H: How do you ensure your teams feel included, valued and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work?
LO: By highlighting their strengths and allowing them to reach their full potential. Through our Leadership Academy — a dynamic space with inspiring talks, hands-on activities, and collaboration — we provide the tools and confidence to take on new challenges.

At Global Cruises, we foster a safe, supportive environment where people from all backgrounds feel respected and confident. I believe that while some leaders are born and others are made, recognizing individuals’ strengths and challenging them beyond their comfort zones is essential. By providing the right tools to enhance their leadership skills, we empower them to achieve more than they ever imagined.

WLT&H: What innovative strategies or technologies do you see shaping the future of the industry?
LO: Innovation in experiential travel and technology is shaping the future of the shore excursions industry. At Global Cruises, we go beyond sightseeing by offering immersive experiences that allow guests to learn and engage with destinations in new ways.

Technologies like virtual reality and augmented reality are revolutionizing how we showcase destinations, offering guests the ability to experience faraway locations in a fully interactive and immersive manner. Additionally, technology has streamlined operations, making processes faster, reducing paperwork, and improving efficiency.

By combining cutting-edge technology with unique experiences, we’re redefining how travelers discover, learn and connect with the world.

WLT&H: How do you approach succession planning and developing future leaders within your organization?
LO: At Global Cruises, we take a structured and strategic approach to succession planning and leadership development. Our Leadership Academy is at the core of this, providing employees with opportunities to strengthen their skills and grow into new roles.

Through the Academy, employees gain a deep understanding of their future responsibilities, empowering them to lead by example. Additionally, we've established a career plan, working closely with our team to help them achieve their professional goals. By creating growth opportunities within the company, we ensure a strong leadership pipeline, fostering a culture of continuous development and long-term success.

WLT&H: What attracted you to the travel and hospitality industry, and what has kept you passionate about it?
LO: In 2008, my journey into the travel and hospitality industry began unexpectedly during a visit to Barcelona. I realized I didn’t just want to travel — I wanted to showcase destinations in new and unique ways. This passion for reinventing travel experiences led me into the industry.

What keeps me passionate is the people, diversity and cultures that make every destination special. The soul of a place is reflected in its people, and I find endless inspiration in that. As a traveler first, I knew this was the industry I wanted to be a part of forever.