BIRMINGHAM, AL — Markstein has named Keelie Segars the agency’s chief executive officer. Segars will lead Markstein’s teams in its Birmingham and Washington offices. Segars has been with Markstein for more than four years, serving most recently as a senior VP and VP before that. Prior to joining Markstein, Segars spent nearly 20 years in advertising, most recently as VP, group account director for the regional advertising agency Luckie & Company.

NEW YORK — Sharp Communications has named David Ellis senior VP, digital & social media. Ellis will oversee the digital practice and lead strategy for Sharp’s portfolio of clients. He was most recently VP, digital at Edelman.

VALHALLA, NY — Buzz Creators has hired Jessica Apicella as an account director. Apicella is responsible for managing the development and implementation of strategic PR and marketing programs for clients. Prior to joining Buzz Creators, Apicella was the director of marketing, media and special events at Thompson & Bender.

ARLINGTON, VA — Nathan Leamer, policy adviser to FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, is joining Targeted Victory as a VP in the firm’s public affairs, strategy and marketing practice. He will work with Targeted Victory’s growing list of clients to find solutions for global corporate challenges in the digital age. He was with the FCC for three years.