Alex Rich

Senior account manager, Trilix

Age: 36

Education: Bachelor of Science in advertising and minor in business – Iowa State University; graduate — Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute; graduate — Waukee Leadership Institute; currently enrolled — Leadership Urbandale

Wife: Beth Rich 

Children: Layne Rich, Breck Rich

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Tell us four of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.

I serve on the Waukee YMCA Advisory Board and the Greater Des Moines Partnership marketing committee.

I founded and successfully operated Iowa Glow Co., in addition to my role at Trilix.

I’m a graduate of the Waukee Leadership Institute and the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute, and I am currently enrolled in Leadership Urbandale.

I have volunteered as a varsity boys soccer coach at Urbandale High School for 11 years.

What's your biggest passion, and why?

I find great joy in building relationships and having meaningful conversations with others.

How do you define success, both personally and professionally?

Success is about consistently creating new opportunities — whether in work, on boards, through volunteer roles or other endeavors.

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

Mental and physical health are essential. Your body is an organism that requires proper care. What you consume and how you treat your body directly affects how you feel and function each day. Taking care of myself allows me to put my best foot forward every day.

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

In high school, my mom asked my siblings and me to choose a quote that we felt defined us, to be written on our bedroom walls. I chose, "A positive attitude is a powerful force." I live by this every day, always finding the best in every situation.

What are your aspirations for the future?

Leadership Iowa has been a goal of mine, and I’m excited for the opportunity to continue engaging in meaningful conversations with local business leaders across the state. I’m also looking forward to the future of Iowa Glow Co. and the continued growth of Trilix.

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

Get involved in the things you're passionate about early on, and make networking a priority.

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

I always stay positive. It helps me make the most of any situation and grow from the challenges.

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

Change management strategies for successful organization transitions.

What's one fun fact about you?

I underwent open-heart surgery before the age of 2.

Hobbies:

CrossFit, coaching my kiddo’s soccer teams, outside activities with my family.

What is one word that best describes you?

Ambitious.

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

John & Nick’s scallops and top sirloin.

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

I got into Forty Under 40.

What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?

Fourth of July festivities.