Miss Universe Organization names Mario Búcaro as new CEO

Mario Búcaro has been appointed as the new chief executive officer of the Miss Universe Organization (MUO). 

According to a statement by the MUO, dated October 29, Búcaro succeeds Anne Jakrajutatip as CEO after the latter stepped down from her post on June 20 following a reorganization in the board of directors at JKN Global Group in Thailand.

"Mr. Búcaro succeeds Ms. Anne Jakrajutatip, who stepped down on June 20, 2025," the MUO said. 

"The organization extends its heartfelt appreciation to Ms. Jakrajutatip for her visionary leadership and dedication, which greatly enhanced MUO’s global presence and commitment to inclusion and diversity. Her efforts have left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire the organization’s mission as she now focuses on her family." 

Búcaro is MUO's former vice president for international relations. A diplomat and public servant, he had served as Guatemala's Ambassador to Israel, Mexico, Bulgaria, and Cyprus. He also recently held the post of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala. 

The news of his appointment comes less than a month before the Miss Universe 2025 pageant, which will be held on November 21 in Bangkok, Thailand. 

Per the MUO, Búcaro will focus on the organization's dedication to excellence and inclusivity while expanding its impact worldwide. 

"His leadership will focus on strengthening international collaborations, expanding the organization’s presence across the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, and Africa, and enriching the candidate experience while upholding integrity and fairness," the MUO said.

"He will also work to amplify the organization’s social impact initiatives, empowering women and fostering leadership development through innovation, social responsibility, and global engagement programs." 

Raul Rocha remains president of MUO. 

Back in April, the MUO distanced itself from the legal issues surrounding Anne Jakrajutatip, who headed JKN Global Group.

This was after Thailand's Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) concluded in January 2024 that "public statements made by JKN regarding the sale of MUO to new investors from Mexico contained inaccuracies that could potentially mislead investors." 

In June, the MUO categorically denied reports suggesting executive restructuring within the organization and affirmed that Jakrajutatup remains CEO of the organization. 

—CDC, GMA Integrated News