Dr. Ian Alexander, M.D., is a distinguished orthopedic surgeon, educator, and small team leader with over four decades of experience across North America and internationally. He has held numerous leadership roles, including Professor of Orthopedics and Chief of Foot and Ankle Surgery at the Ohio State University, Facility Medical Director for TeamHealth at Genesis Healthcare System and president of a medical software company.

A pioneer in orthopedics, Dr. Alexander is the author of The Foot: Examination and Diagnosis, a foundational text translated into German and Japanese, and has contributed to over 20 peer-reviewed articles and numerous book chapters. He has been honored with multiple awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, orthopedic educator awards from the Cleveland Clinic, Summa Health System and Ohio State University, the Living Legend Award from the Department of Orthopedic Surgery of Ohio State University and the Physician of the Year Award for the Prescription Footwear Association. 

Throughout his career, Dr. Alexander has been driven by a passion for mentorship, interprofessional collaboration, and human-centered leadership. His latest book, Thrust into Leadership: Empowering Small Healthcare Teams, was born out of a desire to equip physicians, nurses, and allied healthcare professionals with the practical and emotional tools needed to lead effectively. Drawing from his personal journey, lessons learned through missteps, and deep study of leadership literature, he offers a grounded, compassionate guide for those navigating the frontlines of healthcare.

Dr. Alexander’s reputation for humility, empathy, and cross-disciplinary understanding has made him a sought-after speaker and visiting professor around the world, from Canada to Switzerland, Singapore to Australia, Argentina to India, and others. In retirement, hoping to give back, he is deeply committed to fostering resilience, trust, and purpose in healthcare teams.

When he is not writing he enjoys gardening, reading, spending time with grandchildren, and traveling.