Iris brings over fifteen years of political and policy experience. Before forming IW Strategies, she was a Principal at McCarthy Strategic Solutions where she managed a local and state portfolio that ranged from political consulting to regulations, and policy areas that included economic development, healthcare, taxes, education, planning and zoning, and public safety. 

Prior to her role at MSS, Iris served as Vice President of Public Policy and External Affairs for Greater Louisville Inc., the Metro Chamber of Commerce. In her role, Iris spearheaded legislative affairs at the local, state, and federal levels. During her tenure, Iris successfully developed and led numerous Chamber priorities in Frankfort and Indianapolis, including issues related to workforce, economic development, labor, healthcare, taxes, and education. Her efforts also focused on Louisville Metro Government and advancing legislative priorities amongst the Kentucky and Indiana federal delegations. In addition, she oversaw communications, public relations, and diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies for the organization.

Iris was a political operative prior to her public policy work, consulting on campaigns and committees supporting gubernatorial, senate, and presidential candidates. In the 2016 election cycle, Iris worked with the National Republican Senatorial Committee, serving as Regional Political Director of Indiana, Kentucky, & Ohio. Ahead of the 2014 election cycle, she joined Team Mitch in early 2013 as Political Director to reelect the Republican Leader of the U.S. Senate, Mitch McConnell. In the 2012 Presidential race, Iris was based in New Mexico and Northern Nevada on behalf of the Republican National Committee as a State Director. Prior positions included working with the Kentucky State Senate Majority Caucus communications team, 2011 Kentucky Gubernatorial campaign, and Republican Party of Kentucky in 2010 to elect now-U.S. Senator Rand Paul.

Showcased across diverse news platforms and media outlets, including Kentucky Educational Television, WHAS-11, the Courier-Journal, and 840 WHAS, Iris has provided in-depth policy analysis, political commentary, and election night coverage.

Iris serves on the program and public policy committee of Volunteers of America Mid-States and Kosair for Kids Advisory Council. She is a Past President of the Louisville Forum, a nonprofit public issues group. Iris is a recipient of the 2020 Young Professionals Association of Louisville Award and the national 2020 Women Serving Women Campaign Award from Women in Government Relations for her work advancing state and federal legislation supporting pregnant workers. She was also named one of Louisville Business First’s 2021 40 Under 40, Kentucky Gazette’s 2020 Most Notable Women in Politics and Government, and Maverick PAC’s Future 40 in 2014.

Iris is a Hardin County, KY native and graduate of the University of Louisville. She resides in Louisville with her husband, Tyler, and their son, George.