FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 2008-01-01

Jacques Régis assumes Presidency of the International Electrotechnical Commission

OTTAWA – The Standards Council of Canada is pleased to announce that Jacques Régis today began his three-year term as President of the International Electrotechnical Commission’s (IEC).  Régis, who becomes IEC’s 32nd President and the first-ever Canadian elected to lead the organization, completed a one-year term as IEC President-Elect on December 31, 2007.

"I intend to serve the interests of the IEC community as a whole and look forward to working together as a team to face the challenges that lie ahead, as we embark on this exciting 2nd century of the IEC,” noted Jacques Régis of his term as President.

Participation within international standardization bodies strengthens global ties and ensures that Canadian interests are considered in the development of voluntary standards that impact global trade. “As a key driver of competition and innovation, standards have a significant impact on the Canadian economy,” said SCC Executive Director, Peter Clark. “While participation on various technical committees is needed, it’s also vital that Canadians be represented in the management and leadership of international standards organizations. Jacques’ presidency represents a significant step forward for Canada in this area.”

Régis has held a variety of executive positions throughout his professional career, serving as chairman of the board for organizations such as the Transmission Council of the Canadian Electricity Association, and Hydro-Québec TransÉnergie Inc., where he was also President and Chief Operating Officer from 1997 to 2003.

A graduate the Université de Montréal, he obtained a B.Sc. in 1968 and an M.Sc. in materials chemistry in 1973. In 1983, Mr. Régis received a diploma in administration from the École des hautes études commerciales and a diploma from the International Centre for Research and Studies in Management, in Montréal.

IEC leads the development of international standards for electrical, electronic and related technologies. Its standards provide industry and governments with the framework for economies of design, greater product and service quality, and better production and delivery efficiency. IEC standards also encourage an improved quality of life by contributing to safety, human health and the protection of the environment. For additional information on the IEC, visit www.iec.ch.

The Standards Council of Canada coordinates Canada's participation at IEC through its sponsorship of the Canadian National Committee of IEC. SCC is a Crown corporation with the mandate to promote efficient and effective voluntary standardization in Canada. It facilitates the development and use of national and international standards and accreditation services to enhance Canada's competitiveness and social well-being.  For more information, visit www.scc.ca,  or contact the Standards Council via e-mail at [email protected]. 

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