IRIS Metals appoints Simon Iacopetta and promotes Chris Evans to Executive Chairman

Leadership Revamp Targets Growth Phase

IRIS Metals Limited (ASX:IR1) has reshuffled its leadership team to better position itself for growth in the critical minerals sector. Simon Iacopetta, a seasoned resources executive with over two decades of experience, has been appointed Strategic Advisor to the Board. Meanwhile, Chris Evans has transitioned from Non-Executive Chairman to Executive Chairman, signalling a more hands-on approach in steering the company’s next growth phase.

Strategic Advisor Brings Capital Markets and Development Expertise

Iacopetta’s track record spans senior roles at Winsome Resources, Core Lithium, and Ramelius Resources, where he was involved in capital raisings, strategic transactions, and project development. His arrival bolsters IRIS Metals’ capacity to navigate capital markets and corporate strategy as it sharpens its focus on expanding its North American critical minerals footprint.

Executive Chairman to Drive Portfolio Expansion

Chris Evans’ move to Executive Chairman reflects a strategic pivot to more active leadership. He will lead growth initiatives and assess opportunities to build out IRIS Metals’ portfolio, which currently includes the Finley Basin Tungsten Project in Montana and lithium-rubidium assets in South Dakota. These projects are well positioned given tungsten’s critical status in defence and aerospace, and the growing demand for lithium and rubidium in advanced manufacturing.

Building on Recent Exploration Momentum

The leadership changes come as IRIS Metals prepares for a substantial drilling campaign at Finley Basin, aiming to validate historical tungsten mineralisation through a 7,000-metre program scheduled for Q3 2026. This follows recent updates to its Beecher lithium-rubidium resource in South Dakota, which now stands at 3.03 million tonnes at 1.00% Li2O, including a high-grade rubidium zone. These developments underpin the company’s strategic intent to support secure domestic supply chains for critical minerals in North America.

Strategic Focus on Long-Term Shareholder Value

Both Evans and Iacopetta emphasise the goal of creating sustainable shareholder value through disciplined growth. Evans noted the strength of their previous working relationship with Iacopetta, highlighting his expertise as a key asset for executing IRIS Metals’ strategy. Iacopetta echoed this sentiment, expressing enthusiasm for advancing the company’s portfolio and exploring meaningful opportunities in the critical minerals space.