The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) has appointed Mario Bucaro as its new chief executive officer, taking over from Anne Jakrajutatip as the group undergoes leadership restructuring.
In an announcement posted Wednesday, MUO said the transition follows changes in the board structure of JKN Global Group, one of the organization’s co-owners along with Legacy Holdings Group led by Raul Rocha. Jakrajutatip, who led MUO since 2022, exited her roles in JKN Global Group on June 20 after the Securities and Exchange Commission of Thailand filed a complaint against her.
MUO expressed gratitude for her contributions, noting her role in expanding global visibility and driving advocacy efforts. “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,” it said. The group added that she now shifts her focus to her family.
Bucaro previously served as MUO’s Vice President for International Relations and has extensive diplomatic experience, having served as Guatemala’s foreign minister and ambassador to several countries, including Israel and Mexico.
According to MUO, his leadership will prioritize strengthening global partnerships and extending the reach of the pageant. “As CEO of the Miss Universe Organization, Mr. Búcaro will reinforce MUO’s commitment to excellence and inclusivity while enhancing its global outreach,” the organization stated.
He is expected to oversee efforts to elevate the candidate experience, expand presence across major regions, and support initiatives empowering women through leadership and social impact programs.
MUO also noted internal “structural adjustments” aimed at improving management operations. The leadership change comes just weeks before the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand on November 21.
The Philippines will be represented by Ahtisa Manalo of Quezon as she vies for the country’s fifth Miss Universe title, following Gloria Diaz (1969), Margarita Moran (1973), Pia Wurtzbach (2015), and Catriona Gray (2018).
