Mario Bucaro — who was recently appointed as Miss Universe Organization (MUO) CEO — is stepping down from his position after just one month in service, as the pageant continues to be riddled with controversies following its 2025 coronation night in Thailand.
The MUO announced the end of Bucaro’s tenure in a press release on its official website on Friday, Dec 12, although the reasons behind his departure have not been disclosed.
“The Miss Universe Organization announced that Mr Mario Bucaro has concluded his tenure as Chief Executive Officer, a role he assumed in November of this year, marking the close of a period of institutional service during which he carried out key operational leadership responsibilities in the production of the 74th Miss Universe competition, held in Bangkok, Thailand,” it said.
According to the organisation, Bucaro played a key role in the “coordination of local and international teams” and ensuring “proper channels of dialogue” among its sponsors, partners, media outlets, and its global community that is “committed to the empowerment of women.”
The MUO added that the Guatemalan diplomat made “meaningful contributions” in the 74th Miss Universe pageant, noting that it’s one of the “most significant milestones of his tenure.”
“Those who know me and have worked with me understand that I have always conducted myself with the highest ethical standards, and that in every responsibility I have assumed, I have sought to leave a positive legacy with every person with whom I have collaborated,” he said, adding that his time with the MUO was an “invaluable period of learning.”
“I had the privilege of working alongside extraordinary women, exceptional professionals, and a global community that genuinely believes in the empowerment of women,” he added.
Bucaro was announced as the CEO of the MUO during the height of the 74th edition’s coronation night in Bangkok, Thailand, last month.
The Guatemalan diplomat succeeded Thai business mogul Anne Jakrajutatip after the latter stepped down from her position last June. Jakrajutatip is one of the executives of JKN Global Group, who co-owns the MUO with president Raul Rocha’s Legacy Holdings Group. – Philippine Daily Inquirer/Asia News Network
