+ 973 667 1600 info@csrgroup.com

Leadership

Mr. Salas and Mr. Cohen are co-founders of CSR Group, which consists of CSR Associates, PA , an Architectural and Engineering Design firm and CSR Construction Corp. a general construction company. These firms were created to provide clients with the option of having design services and construction services within the same management structure streamlining the construction delivery process. They share common core values which have led them to the success they have enjoyed since the founding of the firm in 1982. Those values influence the way business is conducted with their clients every single day and that methodology in practiced by each and every employee. The staff communicates, creates and then constructs. Whether the project is a complex design-build assignment, a design only program, a construction contract or services such as consulting, project management or supervision the firm is on the same track as the client. Client goals and objectives form a dynamic synergy. We are always in touch which creates results, not surprises.

Francisco J. Salas, A.I.A.

President and Chief Executive Officer

Mr. Salas is a graduate of Cooper Union where he earned a Bachelor of Architecture and Columbia University where he received a Master of Science in Architecture and Urban Design. He is a registered Architect in New Jersey and New York. Born in Cuba, he is fluent in both English and Spanish. As CEO, Mr. Salas provides overall corporate management and is responsible for the day-to-day management of CSR Group’s operations and practice. His background in the areas of commercial, industrial, institutional and utility construction is varied. He often acts as the principal in charge of CSR Group’s design/build fast- track projects. He is an accomplished artist and photographer who has been featured in several juried exhibitions and has been the recipient of national recognition for his artistic work.


PUBLICATIONS/EXHIBITIONS

  • American Institute of Aesthetics "The Highway As A Matrix For A Transformation Of Suburbia", 1977
  • Columbia University Architectural Journal Battery Park City Urban Design Proposal, 1979
  • "Les Halles" Design Competition Paris, France, 1981
  • The Designer, March 1986 "Designer's Spotlight" Manhattan Duplex
  • The Designer, February 1986 "Reflective Design" Stanley Blacker Showroom & Offices
  • Bloomfield Studios, Bloomfield, New Jersey Studio Tour 2006 and 2007
  • Enviro-Challege VII: “dysfunctional” (Featured Exhibit) Educational Event at the Wood Turning Center, Philadelpia, PA October, 2008
  • 24th International Juried Show, Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, January through March 2010

Leon Cohen, A.I.A., P.P.

Principal and Executive Vice President

Leon Cohen is a graduate of Pratt Institute of Technology, Brooklyn, NY where he earned a Bachelor of Science Civil Engineering as well as a Bachelor of Architecture. He is a Registered Architect in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Arizona, Ohio, Texas, Florida and Maryland.. He is a Professional Planner registered in New Jersey. Born in Alexandria, Egypt, his family emigrated to the United States in 1961. Mr. Cohen is fluent in both English and French. As Executive Vice President, Mr. Cohen is responsible for the communication, marketing and client liaison for the firm’s design and construction operations. Under his stewardship the CSR Group has completed over $500 million of design and construction work since the firm’s founding. His entrepreneurial spirit has also expanded base design and construction operations to include equity positions and joint ventures in industrial and residential development projects for the CSR Group. He is responsible for seeking out new opportunities for CSR Group by marketing the firm’s design and build delivery method, which has been the company’s formula for success.


PUBLICATIONS/EXHIBITIONS
  • The Designer, March 1986 "Designer's Spotlight" Manhattan Duplex
  • The Designer, February 1986 "Reflective Design" Stanley Blacker Showroom & Offices
  • New York Society of Architects, March 1992 "The Architect, Construction Management and Design/Build Issues"
  • Sunday Star Ledger, January 1999 "Buildings Designed To Open Minds"
  • Sunday Star Ledger, February 2001 "Designs On The Right Architect”
  • The New York Times, June 2001 "Building Diversity" Merrill Lynch Day-Care Site
  • Builder/Architect, September 2001 "The CSR Group” Building Relationships – Cover Story
  • NJPA Real Estate Journal, May 13-26, 2005 Annual Spotlight “Industrial Distribution Centers: Changing Paradigms and Unique Challenges”
  • NJPA Real Estate Journal, June 10-23, 2005 Professional Services Mid-Year Review "Relationship Building Through Design and Build Project Delivery”
  • NJBIA, New Jersey Business Magazine, August 2006, “Strong Core Values Build A Strong Organization”
  • Real Estate New Jersey, Construction and Design RoundTable, “The Impact of LEED on Planning”.

TEACHING
  • The Institute of Design and Construction, Brooklyn, New York –Design and Construction Courses

David Buttacavoli

Construction Executive

Since 1994, Mr. Buttacavoli has a successfully worked his way through the ranks with CSR Construction Corp. with his display of exceptional managerial skills and dedication to project requirements. Mr. Buttacavoli has proven his ability to understand the construction operations at CSR Group and adhere to strict scheduling and budget constraints to meet client goals and expectations. His attention to detail and superior people skills enhance his ability to be well respected by CSR clients as well as the staff of construction personnel which he is responsible for. Mr. Buttacavoli is a graduate of the NYU Construction Management program and a number of construction related continuing education programs. He is certified by Osha Compliance and Workplace safety. He maintains a strong focus and dedication to CSR group and leads by example. His ongoing responsibilities are the negotiation and procurement of subcontractors and vendors, coordination of on-site contractors with the field superintendents, scheduling and manpower, tracking project finances and change management, resolving claims and labor issues. He has completed numerous projects for CSR during his tenure including new facilities for Proponent Federal Credit Union and Merrill Lynch Family Services.

Harry Zawada, AIA

Architectural Executive

Mr. Zawada is a graduate of New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ where he received his bachelors of Architecture degree. Mr. Zawada began his career as a project manager and CADD specialist. Mr. Zawada has been with the CSR group for 20 years and is responsible for the firms design, production and graphics on architectural projects. He is proficient in AutoCAD and rendering software. He is well versed in zoning, code review and compliance with all state codes. He coordinates the work with the CSR architectural staff making sure that we understand the projects intent and special needs, so that we are able to be successful during the process. Mr. Zawada also coordinates with the CSR construction staff on design and build projects in order that all of the disciplines are working jointly to meet our goals. Harry has been the coordinator for projects for PSE&G, Adler Development

Katherine M. Ubinger, PE

Construction Management Executive

A graduate of University of Dayton in Ohio, Ms. Ubinger is a Professional Civil Engineer. With CSR Group Ms. Ubinger is involved with the execution of numerous projects and has a focus in site development and civil construction. She performs project management duties which include CPM scheduling, construction budgets and analysis, project administration including quality control and quality assurance, control of sub-contractors, procurement of materials, payment requisitions and project manning requirements to meet scheduling. She is extremely personable and has a great rapport with the CSR group of clients. She has been with the CSR group for over 20 years in different roles starting with general project management. Prior to joining CSR she started her career in claims analysis and litigation. Her experience in the field helps keep CSR focused on making the right decisions and minimizing construction claims. Her projects include work at Revlon Cosmetics, BDI Laguna, MediMedia Health and Prologis, Inc.