Most stylebooks specify placing the nickname after the forename and enclosing it in quotation marks. Some stylebooks say parentheses may be used instead. Examples of the preferred form: General James "Mad Dog" Mattis, Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant, Prime Minister Margaret "Iron Lady" Thatcher.

Do you use quotation marks for a nickname?

When a nickname is inserted into the identification of an individual, use quotation marks: Sen. Henry M. “Scoop” Jackson. Also: Jackson is known as “Scoop.”

Should nicknames be italicized?

Generic titles should be capitalized, but not in italics or quotes. ... Works with generic titles that have been given nicknames usually put the nickname in parenthesis and italics when referencing the complete title. If referring to the work by its nickname in prose, just use italics.