Miss Universe Organization appoints Nawat Itsaragrisil as ‘Eastern’ CEO

Thai pageant personality Nawat itsaragrisil is expanding his foothold in the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) with an even greater role following a recent appointment.

In a statement from New York dated July 31 (Aug. 1 in Manila), MUO announced that he has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of “Miss Universe Eastern.” He was previously the vice president for Miss Universe Asiana.

With his new role, Nawat will oversee a team representing 95 countries and territories within the region. He is still the president of the Miss Grand International pageant, which he founded in 2013.

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Also assuming new leadership roles in the MUO were Monil Hathi as managing director and Pavan Misra as head of sales. “Together, we will strengthen collaboration, create new opportunities for our delegates and partners, and continue advancing the values and global vision of Miss Universe. I look forward to leading this talented team into its next chapter of growth and success,” MUO’s statement quoted Nawat as saying.

He had previously clashed with the MUO as head of the Miss Grand International pageant, at one point even threatening to overtake Miss Universe in prestige and relevance.

But in February 2025, he surprised the world when he acquired the Miss Universe license for Thailand, securing the franchise for a period of five years. Later that year, he was appointed as VP for Miss Universe Asiana.

In May this year, Nawat announced that aside from Thailand, he had also acquired the Miss Universe licenses for five more Southeast Asian countries–Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam.

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“Nawat is widely recognized as one of the most experienced and accomplished leaders in the international pageant industry. His extensive knowledge, proven leadership and deep understanding of the industry will be instrumental in strengthening Miss Universe Eastern’s presence and supporting its network of National Directors, delegates and partners,” read the statement.

The Miss Universe pageant will hold its 75th edition in Puerto Rico later this year, with the coronation show scheduled on Nov. 24 (25 in Manila). American-Filipino activist Bea Millan-Windorski will represent the Philippines in the competition.