WASHINGTON — FTI Consulting has named data scientist Nick Sharkey a managing director in its strategic communications segment, boosting the group’s expertise in analytics.

Sharkey brings more than 15 years of experience to the role, which most recently involved running his own data sciences firm, Tiger Shark Analytics.  His expertise covers the entire spectrum of data science, including machine learning, data engineering, artificial intelligence and data visualization.

Previously, Sharkey held data and analytics leadership roles for organizations including the Republican National Committee, political campaigns, Georgetown University and the US Homeland Security department’s transportation division.

Sharkey will be based in Washington and report to Brent McGoldrick, head of the communications group’s digital & insights practice, and Paul Henninger, who leads the firm’s digital science group. Hiring Sharkey is part of the segment’s larger push to become a more digitally integrated firm, FTI said.

“As we continue to grow our digital & insights offering, Nick’s expertise in predictive analytics and root cause analysis will be invaluable in providing clients with unique insights into what to expect and how to mitigate and manage through challenging times,” McGoldrick said.