Join us for a presentation from IGLTA followed by a short panel on inclusivity in special corporate travel and a sneak peak of the newly renovated W Union Square!

Renato Gagliardi

Global Membership Director, IGLTA (he/him/him)

With over two decades of rich experience in Sales and Marketing, Renato Gagliardi's career has been predominantly sculpted in the hospitality sector, further broadening into significant educational and entrepreneurial ventures. He holds degrees from Macquarie University in Australia and University Canada West in Vancouver, encompassing Hospitality, Tourism, Business, and an MBA. His professional journey includes notable roles in luxury hotel management, serving as a Regional Admissions Director for international universities in South America, and embarking on his own business venture in 2017—an endeavor that spurred considerable personal and professional growth. Beyond his career, his deep commitment to social impact is evidenced by his active involvement with the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA). Here, he ardently advocates for inclusivity and equality within the travel industry. Gagliardi's aspirations in both his career and personal life are guided by a commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and creating meaningful change.

2:30 PM - Registration 

3 PM - Meeting in the Living room 

4 PM – Site inspections Available

4:30 PM -  Reception

W New York – Union Square, the iconic luxury hotel and anchor of the Union Square neighborhood, is currently undergoing a massive, top to bottom renovation set to be unveiled in April 2024. Designed in partnership with Rockwell Group, the reveal will include all new rooms and suites, a new destination restaurant - Seahorse by Mercer Street Hospitality - and the former Great Room (Ballroom) will be reborn into W's signature Living Room experience, honoring the original Art Deco ceiling and marble walls/columns from its original 1911 design. The final chapter of the renovation will see the debut of an intimate rooftop bar adjacent to the hotel's landmark rooftop sign, with jaw-dropping views of the New York City skyline. This breathtaking transformation is part of the W brand's ongoing evolution which is marked by sophisticated yet playful design, elevated cultural programming and a bold new visual identity to meet the anticipated needs of the next generation.