Alex Ricken

Alex Ricken has a diverse and extensive work experience in the education and technology industry.

Starting in 2000, Alex worked as a Faculty member at Kaplan Test Prep, teaching and tutoring various test prep classes. During this time, Alex also provided training and professional development to other instructors.

In 2002, Alex transitioned to a role in Field Management at Kaplan Test Prep, quickly progressing through different roles and responsibilities. This included overseeing instructor quality, serving as an Arizona Director, and leading academics and field marketing as an Associate Regional Director.

In 2010, Alex took on the role of Senior Director in the Live Online and Digital Media division at Kaplan Test Prep. Here, Alex played a pivotal role in launching live online products and creating an innovative synchronous teaching experience. This product became a category creator and achieved high excellence ratings by students.

From 2012 to 2013, Alex served as Senior Director and later Executive Director in the Innovation and Learning Science Group at Kaplan Test Prep. In these roles, Alex led projects to launch personalized digital test prep practice products and develop new asynchronous digital instruction products.

In 2013, Alex joined Grockit, a leading Ed Tech Start Up, as Chief Operating Officer. Alex worked closely with the CEO to develop product vision and business strategy, overseeing various aspects of the business including student service, finance, and data analytics. Alex implemented lean start-up and agile methodologies, resulting in reduced risk and faster results.

In 2015, Alex joined Kaplan Test Prep again, this time as Executive Director of Digital Strategy. Here, Alex led initiatives to help a nursing business unit manage a digital transformation and expand into new markets through investments and partnerships. Alex also guided cross-functional teams to create and launch new products following Lean Start Up principles.

From 2016 to 2017, Alex served as the Director of the Global Freshman Academy at EdPlus at Arizona State University. In this role, Alex played a key role in creating access to a full university freshman year for anyone, anywhere through an online platform.

Finally, in 2019, Alex co-founded Podium Education and took on the role of Chief Product Officer, Co-Founder, and Board Member. As the Chief Product Officer, Alex is responsible for developing and overseeing the company's product strategy and implementation.

Alex Ricken completed a Bachelor's degree at the University of Michigan from 1994 to 1998. The specific field of study is not mentioned.