The Common Sense Institute (CSI) Iowa announced Tuesday it has named Matt Everson as its new executive director.
Mr. Everson brings nearly 25 years of experience in public policy, government affairs and economic advocacy at the state and federal levels to the organization.
He joins CSI Iowa after serving as state director for the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), where he led public policy and advocacy efforts for more than 12,000 small business members across Iowa. During his nearly nine years in the role, Mr. Everson worked with lawmakers, business leaders and stakeholders to advance policies supporting entrepreneurship, job creation and long-term economic growth.
Earlier in his career, Mr. Everson held roles in both state and federal government, including positions in the Iowa Senate, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the U.S. Senate.
As executive director, Mr. Everson will lead CSI Iowa’s strategic initiatives, research efforts and stakeholder engagement, working to expand the organization’s impact and elevate data-driven policy discussions across the state.
“Matt brings an exceptional depth of experience and a strong understanding of Iowa’s policy and economic landscape,” said Cinamon Watson, CEO of the Common Sense Institute. “His leadership and collaborative approach will help strengthen CSI’s work to provide rigorous, nonpartisan research that informs decision-makers and supports long-term economic growth across Iowa.”
