Alex Lais

Alex Lais was named associate athletics director for marketing and multimedia at the University of Iowa on Feb. 23, 2026.

Lais came to Iowa City after working in multiple roles for nearly eight years at Northern Arizona University athletics. He served as its deputy director of external operations the prior seven months. The previous five years, he served as associate athletics director for fan engagement and revenue generation.

As deputy director of external operations, Lais provided strategic oversight for the department's communications and brand strategy, digital production, fan engagement, and ticket operations units, while also serving as the department’s day-to-day contact with Learfield, Adidas/GameOne, and key campus and community partnerships to elevate and enhance the brand of NAU Athletics.

During his tenure, Lais drove a transformative fan engagement experience at NAU, most notably leading a 45.7 percent increase in ticket revenues during his tenure, fueled by innovative programming, elevated game day production, and targeted outreach. Lais also led all planning and implementation of the award-winning “Northern Arizona Astrojacks” alternate brand identity campaign, which gained national recognition for its creativity and impact. 

A native of Normal, Illinois, Lais was also closely involved with the department's fundraising efforts, including annual fund strategies and major gift solicitations, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) operations, and served as the sport administrator for men's basketball, women's basketball and women’s soccer.

Prior to NAU, Lais served as marketing manager at the University of Southern California for nearly two years (2016-18).

Lais earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and sports studies/sports management from Eastern Illinois University and a master’s degree in higher education administration/athletic administration from Southeast Missouri State University, where he held the role of graduate assistant for athletics marketing and promotions.