Ethics continues to be one of the most highly regarded pillars of business leadership. In its 2025 edition, Revista Summa published a list of executives with the highest professional ethics in Central America and the Dominican Republic, recognizing outstanding private sector figures who have built reputations based on principles. Among those selected was Juan José Gutiérrez Mayorga, Chairman of CMI Foods and Chairman of the Board at Del Real Foods, recognized as one of the region’s most respected leaders for his high ethical standards.

The results are based on a regional survey conducted from January 6th to February 21st, in which 2,000 senior executives—CEOs, presidents, general managers, finance and marketing executives—participated. Each was asked to nominate three leaders they considered role models for their integrity and professional commitment.

What Did Executives Evaluate?

The methodology used by Revista Summa went beyond a simple open vote. Each respondent evaluated key aspects linked to building a solid professional reputation, such as corporate behavior, leadership habits, and the alignment between values and actions. They were then asked to nominate three business or regional leaders known for their professional ethics.

In the case of Juan José Gutiérrez Mayorga, his leadership has stood out for:

• Promoting responsible and sustainable business practices
  
• Prioritizing the well-being of the communities where CMI Foods operates
  
• Leading with a focus on trust, integrity, and transparency
  
• Strengthening a corporate culture based on the REIR values (laughter in Spanish): Responsibility, Excellence, Integrity, and Respect
  

These actions have helped position him among the most respected leaders in the region. The ranking also included other CMI leaders such as Juan Luis Bosch Gutiérrez, Chairman of the Board of CMI, and Enrique Crespo, CEO of CMI Capital, reflecting how ethics is a cornerstone of the corporation’s leadership approach.

Ethics and Leadership as the Foundation of Business Trust

Juan José Gutiérrez Mayorga’s inclusion in this list reflects a vision that sees ethics as a daily practice rooted in responsibility and consistency. His leadership at the helm of CMI Foods has been essential in cultivating an organizational culture that goes beyond financial results, focusing on the creation of sustainable value.

At a time when the legitimacy of business leaders is under increasing scrutiny, having role models who lead with integrity helps strengthen trust in the private sector and its capacity to generate positive impact.