Ivica Karas

Ivica Karas

Manager, Strategic Initiatives, Standards

Staying ahead of emerging issues and taking a strategic approach to standards development helps ensure that standards developed across sectors are relevant and timely. Primarily focused on CSA Group’s Construction & Infrastructure sector, Ivica Karas plays a crucial role in helping to ensure this, working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to drive the organization’s mission forward, every day.

  1. Describe your CSA Group career journey.

    In September 2018, I moved to Toronto, Ontario from Brussels, Belgium to become a Project Manager within CSA Group’s Construction & Infrastructure standards sector. It was a bold move that I’ve never regretted. After making the decision to relocate to CSA Group’s office in Ottawa, Ontario in 2020, I was appointed Manager of Strategic Initiatives. In this role, I primarily focus on CSA Group’s Construction & Infrastructure sector, although I’ve had the unique opportunity to also support some exciting Environment & Business Excellence programs on a temporary basis as well.

  2. What is a typical day at work like for you?

    My typical day involves a blend of background research, internal discussions, meetings and workshops with external stakeholders on new strategic initiatives. I also support our marketing priorities, and draft research and funding proposals. I enjoy the diversity and highly collaborative nature of my role.

  3. What is the most rewarding aspect of your role at CSA Group?

    The opportunity to work with teams and individuals from across organization. I routinely collaborate with other sectors within our Standards organization on cross-sectoral initiatives, and work closely with our marketing, legal, government relations, research, and education teams to bring projects to fruition. I regularly have the chance to share the role and value of standards with external stakeholders, which is rewarding.

  4. If you could describe working at CSA Group in one word, what would it be? Why?

    Serving. With the organization’s mission anchored in safety, sustainability and social good, working at CSA Group provides me with an opportunity to serve a “higher good”. Standards play an important role in helping to address the current and future needs and challenges facing society and our planet, so I feel that I am making a difference.

  5. Why is CSA Group a great place to work?

    While the entire organization shares a common mission, the nature of work and areas of operation are diverse and constantly evolving. There is so much potential for personal and professional growth and development.

    Above everything, it is the spirit of collaboration across all functions, roles, and teams that stands out to me. Since the first day I joined CSA Group, I’ve been impressed by the eagerness of my colleagues and management to help with whatever is on my plate. I’ve always felt included and supported, and that my colleagues genuinely care.

Interested in joining our team? Visit our Careers page to see open opportunities.