Alex Lynch

Director of regional community integration, Greater Des Moines Partnership

Age: 39

Education: University of Iowa, Bachelor of Arts in communication studies, Minors: business administration and sociology; University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute (OUEDI) graduate; certified economic developer, International Economic Development Council

Wife: Stephanie Lynch 

Children: Three boys (Charlie, Eddie, George), one daughter (Hazel) and one more child on the way!

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Tell us four of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.

I lead regional integration efforts at the Greater Des Moines Partnership, connecting chambers, businesses, local governments and new residents to strengthen our community.

I increased the budget of the East Polk Innovation Collaborative by 150%.

I increased involvement from local governments while at Greater Dallas County Development Alliance and East Polk Innovation Collaborative.

I assisted Amazon with establishing its first location in Iowa and supported Meta’s expansion in Greater Des Moines.

What's your biggest passion, and why?

My wife and I have been blessed with four incredible children (with a fifth on the way!). At this stage in our lives, our biggest passion is striving to provide them with the best opportunities, values and support to help them grow into kind and successful individuals.

How do you define success, both personally and professionally?

Personally: the amount of quality time I spend with my family and friends doing the things we love. Professionally: achieving meaningful goals in a collaborative way that positively affects the community.

Tell us about an issue you think more people should know about.

I have had the opportunity to travel throughout the U.S., and one thing is clear — our commitment to regional collaboration gives Greater Des Moines a better chance of succeeding. By working together across communities, we can strengthen our economic development, workforce and overall quality of life.

What's an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life?

A person who was down on their luck moved to the region for an entry-level job with a company we helped recruit. They asked the community for assistance in finding a place to live, reliable transportation, etc. The community responded. That person thrived, was promoted within a year and became an active part of the community. That experience reminds me that economic development is ultimately about helping people.

What are your aspirations for the future?

I still have a lot to learn! I’d like to take advantage of professional development opportunities to sharpen my skills and better serve the Greater Des Moines region through impactful, collaborative initiatives. Additionally, I want to learn from all the great leaders in DSM.

What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?

Be a fountain, not a drain. Stay positive, contribute ideas and help those around you succeed. Your energy and attitude can make all the difference.

What's one regular habit that's made you successful?

I work out every morning — it clears my mind, and sets a productive tone for the day ahead.

What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?

Continuing to focus on the value of regional collaboration. As has been demonstrated for the past several decades, we are better together, and by further strengthening collaboration between cities, businesses and communities, we can cultivate a stronger, more competitive future for Greater Des Moines.

What's one fun fact about you?

I was Herky the Hawk while at the University of Iowa.

Hobbies:

Quality time with family and friends, outdoor activities, live music.

What is one word that best describes you?

Collaborative.

What’s one food (meal, snack, dessert, whatever!) you think people must try in the Des Moines area?

I grew up eating pizza from Chuck’s Restaurant in Highland Park. It is still as good as ever, and they are a member of their local chamber of commerce!

What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened to you recently?

I was mistaken for my twin brother (Luke) in a meeting. That person had just seen him and was surprised to find out there were two of us!

What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?

Spending Saturday mornings at the Downtown Farmers’ Market!