At SAS, where you start doesn’t have to be where you end; and there’s ample opportunity for internal career mobility. Milena Vukasovic has experienced this firsthand, and recently moved into a new role at SAS as a Sr. Associate Implementation Project Manager.  

Meet Milena

Milena’s SAS story began at our Toronto Office, where she began as an Office Administrator: 

“On my first day, SAS already felt like home,” she shared. “I could immediately tell my colleagues wanted me to succeed, and it was a very energizing environment.” Milena’s role expanded over time, and she was promoted to Sr. Office Administrator, and then Lead Office Administrator.  

Recently, she’s taken on a new role: Sr. Associate Implementation Project Manager. 

“I became interested in project management, so I reached out to people in those roles to learn more about it,” she says. “I had colleagues walk me through a “day in the life” of a project manager, and it sounded really interesting. “I’m bilingual in French and English, and a role opened up that required fluency in the French language to communicate with customers, review legal documents and create correspondence. Business need and my skills and career goals aligned, and now I’m a few months into my new role!”

For Milena, it’s been an exciting journey: “Learning a new side of the business has been so rewarding,” Milena explains. “I’m getting a renewed understanding of SAS. It’s scratching an itch – I’ve always been curious about consulting, so getting to be a part of has been exciting!”

Internal Career Mobility at SAS 

Milena took part in a variety of career development programs on her internal career mobility journey, including our Career Circles program: “I started Career Circles during the pandemic,” she explains. “Career Circles help align who you are to what you do. It’s a safe place to explore where you are and where you could see yourself professionally,” she says.

Milena loved her Career Circle experience – so much so, that she’s now leading her second session! “I’ve always been a lifelong learner,” she says. “I’ve taken multiple professional development courses at SAS, and I’ve recently become involved with Toastmasters as well.”

“Internal Career Mobility is an important part of SAS’ future,” Milena explains. “Having been a part of it, it’s great to see such a strong focus on aligning our goals as a company with the skills and ambitions of employees.” 

Advice for Others 

Thinking about your own Internal Career Mobility journey? Milena says to start with the abundant resources that are available: “Take advantage of all the resources and training that are available here at SAS,” she says. 

“The training and resources SAS offers are second to none,” Milena explains. “Through SAS, I was able to take Project Management and Scrum Master training that really helped with the transition to my new role. For a large company, everyone feels very accessible. My manager was instrumental in helping me grow and develop.”   

She also encourages tapping in to your network: “Don’t be afraid to ask people questions about their jobs. Being curious allows you learn more about other people and offers an avenue to explore different opportunities. SAS has such a collaborative culture – if you’re curious about someone’s role, just ask!”

Her final word of wisdom? Be kind to yourself: “Going from something you’ve mastered to just starting out is hard,” she empathizes. “Be patient with yourself and give yourself grace. SAS has a strong emphasis on well-being, personally and professionally. You’re starting over – in a good way – but you’re also learning new programs, processes and more.”

Outside the Office

Milena is passionate about giving back and enjoys serving her local community: “SAS has provided so many opportunities to give back, as well as paid Volunteer Time Off,” she explains. You’ll often find her spending time with her friends, family and her toy schnauzer, Lily. “I also enjoy making beaded jewelry and tending to my herb garden,” she shares.  

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Thanks for sharing your story, Milena! Inspired? Hear from more of Our Storytellers, and check out careers at SAS.