Alexander Phillips was born in Milton, Ontario, and spent most of his life in Northwestern Ontario. He began his working life as a journalist: particularly writing for the Fort William Times-Journal, and becoming its News Editor in 1939. He also wrote as a correspondent for TIME and other national and international magazines and newspapers. He continued to write articles and columns throughout the second half of his career with the Northwestern Ontario Development Association/Northwestern Ontario Development Council.

Phillips began his work as General Manager of the Northwestern Ontario Development Association in 1955, and continued with that organization until its dissolution at the end of 1972. As General Manager, he supported local business and industry through advocacy and information sharing, and advocated for Northwestern Ontario at provincial and national stages.

Records of his other activities are integrated through the records of the Northwestern Ontario Development Association. These include his writing, and work with other organizations such as: the Lake Superior International Highway Association; the Mississippi River Parkway Commission; the Ontario Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Foundation; the Quetico Centre; the Quetico Provincial Park Advisory Committee; the Thunder Bay Press Club; and the Twin City Gas Division of Northern and Central Gas Corporation.

He enjoyed a long marriage to Lillian, and had two daughters and one son.