Phil Alexander is quite unique in that of Norwich's ex-players, he is the only one to have a successful career in American grid-iron football. Originally with Reading as a youth player, Phil gained England Under 18 and England Under 19 caps before being released as Reading had a full quota of trainees. He joined amateur side Wokingham Town from whom Norwich signed him in April 1981 for the sum of £2000. However he played just 19 minutes for the Canaries in a league match against West Bromwich Albion.

In 1984 he moved to New Zealand where he played for Gisborne City and Mirimar. Returning to England, he began participating in American Football as a place kicker for the Farnham Knights. He later had trials with the Philadelphia Eagles and the Chicago Bears before joining the London Monarchs.

A return to the 11-a-side game with amateur sides Kingstonian and Bracknell Town finished his playing career. His success at the latter club in securing a lucrative sponsorship deal led to a post as Marketing Controller for Swindon Town. He later moved to fulfill the same position for Crystal Palace according to Mike Davage's article "Canaries Winging It Everywhere" in the 1997/98 Norwich City handbook.

In June 1998, Phil was appointed Managing Director / Chief Executive of Crystal Palace following Mark Goldberg's purchase of the club and the appointment of Terry Venables as manager

He left Palace after 26 years in the summer of 2022 to take up a senior advisory role at Wycombe Wanderers. He was then appointed as Chief Operating Officer at Bristol City in September 2022 but stepped down in December 2023.