Kara Axx serves as the Chief Procurement & Risk Officer for the University of Alaska, overseeing system-wide procurement operations, including construction contracting, and the university’s risk management functions. She was appointed Chief Procurement Officer in June 2023, and her role expanded in August 2025 following a strategic reorganization within the system finance office.

Kara’s career at UA began as a student assistant in the UAF Facilities Warehouse, and over the years she has advanced through a variety of roles, gaining deep institutional knowledge and hands-on experience. She was part of UA’s first Procurement Technician training program in 2013 and now serves as its instructor, mentoring the next generation of procurement professionals.

She has contributed to key updates in UA’s procurement policies and is well-versed in State of Alaska procurement statutes, Board of Regents policy, and federal procurement regulations. Kara holds certifications as a NIGP Certified Procurement Professional and Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO).

Known for her practical approach to leadership, Kara works closely with teams across all UA campuses to modernize operations, improve processes, and deliver value across the university system.