Wiley Rein announced today that it has hired former U.S. Commerce Department official Nazak Nikakhtar as a partner in the firm’s international trade practice. She also will co-chair the firm’s national security practice with Daniel Pickard.

“A powerful advocate for U.S. businesses throughout her career, Nazak has served with distinction as a senior government executive,” Wiley managing partner Peter Shields said in a statement. “She is a demonstrated team leader, whose innovative work solving critical trade, national security and export control matters will benefit our clients and enhance our core capabilities across the board.”