Miss Universe crowns a new leader: Guatemalan diplomat takes the helm

The Miss Universe Organization appoints Mario Búcaro as new CEO as Anne Jakrajutatip steps down amid SEC probe, marking a new era of leadership and renewal.

Weeks before the 74th Miss Universe coronation in Bangkok, the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) announced a major leadership change, appointing Guatemalan diplomat Mario Búcaro as its new Chief Executive Officer.

READ: Bangkok welcomes the Universe once again; here’s what to expect

The move follows the resignation of Thai business mogul Anne Jakrajutatip, who stepped down amid legal and financial controversies surrounding her company, JKN Global Group.

In a statement, MUO thanked Jakrajutatip for her “visionary leadership and dedication,” crediting her for strengthening the organization’s global presence and inclusivity.

STATEMENT READ: Miss Universe Press Release

Jakrajutatip made history as the first transgender woman to own Miss Universe, championing diversity and empowerment since acquiring MUO in 2022. But JKN’s financial troubles surfaced in late 2023 after loan defaults triggered share sell-offs.

By early 2024, JKN sold 50 percent of Miss Universe’s holding company to Mexico’s Legacy Holding Group USA Inc., co-owned by businessman Raúl Rocha Cantú, to stabilize finances.

Her resignation came after Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed fraud charges, forcing her to step down from all company roles—ending a tumultuous yet trailblazing tenure.

Diplomat background

Búcaro, who joined MUO as Vice President for International Relations in January 2024, brings deep experience in diplomacy and global leadership. A former Guatemalan Foreign Minister and Ambassador to Israel, Mexico, Bulgaria, and Cyprus, he is known for his work in conflict resolution and international cooperation.

He led MUO’s “Beyond the Crown” initiative, which promotes women’s leadership and social impact beyond the pageant stage. His appointment signals a renewed focus on credibility, transparency, and empowerment—core values of the Miss Universe brand.

As CEO, Búcaro is expected to strengthen MUO’s global partnerships and expand its programs empowering women through leadership, education, and innovation. Under MUO President Cantú, the organization continues its reforms to improve management and operational efficiency.

The MUO Board expressed full confidence in Búcaro’s leadership, calling his appointment the start of a “new era of growth and influence.”

Jakrajutatip’s departure closes a controversial yet transformative chapter for MUO. As the SEC’s investigation into JKN Global Group unfolds, the organization stands at a crossroads—balancing its legacy of empowerment with the need to rebuild credibility.

Under Búcaro’s direction, Miss Universe aims to move forward with integrity, unity, and a renewed commitment to being “Empowered Beyond the Crown.”

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