Francis G Bitterly, CFP®
Managing Director, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor, Senior Portfolio Management Director, Family Wealth Director
Phone:
(732) 224-3754(732) 224-3754
The Bitterly Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley
Direct:
(732) 224-3754(732) 224-3754
Toll-Free:
(866) 610-8763(866) 610-8763
Our Mission Statement
Wisdom, Integrity, Caring.
The Bitterly Wealth Management Group is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our clients.
The Bitterly Wealth Management Group is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our clients.
The Bitterly Wealth Management Group
The Bitterly Wealth Management Group works with affluent families, executives, business owners, entrepreneurs and charitable organizations, helping them achieve what is most important to them in terms of their deepest values. Our team is committed to bringing incomparable care and integrity combined with seasoned financial wisdom to our clients and their families. We believe that what is most important in life is much vaster than money--money is just a means to an end. We bring this over- arching virtue into all our affairs and apply it to every client engagement and decision the team makes. You could say we operate from a higher level of conscientiousness and will not compromise on this value.
Money means different things to different people. Each of us has different dreams...
-Financial Freedom
-Educational funding for children or grandchildren
-Travel or a vacation home
-Charitable legacy
Whatever your dreams are, you need a framework for making wise decisions about your money that will help enable you to achieve what is important to you. We seek to help our clients to free their minds of the financial minutia so they can focus their time, talent, and energy on the things that truly matter in their lives.
For the past 37 years, Fran Bitterly has provided a broad, comprehensive approach to helping clients address their financial lives and beyond. This includes more than just taking care of investments. It also means addressing your advanced planning needs, including wealth enhancement, wealth transfer, wealth protection and charitable giving. You owe it to your family and yourself to make sure that your investment plan - and overall wealth management plan - is designed to effectively address your very specific financial needs in order to achieve your financial and spiritual goals.
Fran Bitterly has been recognized as one of Barron's Top Financial Advisors and Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors
- Forbes Best In State Wealth Management Teams - 2025
- Forbes Best In State Wealth Management Teams - 2024
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2024
- Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2024
- Forbes Best In State Wealth Management Teams - 2023
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2023
- Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2023
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2022
- Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2022
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2021
- Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2021
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2020
- Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2020
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2019
- Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2019
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2018
- Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2018
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2017
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2016
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2014
- Barron's Top 1,000 Financial Advisors - 2013
- Barron's Top 1,000 Financial Advisors - 2012
Disclosures:
2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State (formerly referred to as Barron's Top 1,000 Financial Advisors: State-by-State)
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024). Data compiled by Barron's based on 12-month period concluding in Sept of the year prior to the issuance of the award.
2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.
Forbes.com (Awarded 2023, 2024, 2025). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award.
Award Disclosures:(https://www.morganstanley.com/disclosures/awards-disclosure.html)
Money means different things to different people. Each of us has different dreams...
-Financial Freedom
-Educational funding for children or grandchildren
-Travel or a vacation home
-Charitable legacy
Whatever your dreams are, you need a framework for making wise decisions about your money that will help enable you to achieve what is important to you. We seek to help our clients to free their minds of the financial minutia so they can focus their time, talent, and energy on the things that truly matter in their lives.
For the past 37 years, Fran Bitterly has provided a broad, comprehensive approach to helping clients address their financial lives and beyond. This includes more than just taking care of investments. It also means addressing your advanced planning needs, including wealth enhancement, wealth transfer, wealth protection and charitable giving. You owe it to your family and yourself to make sure that your investment plan - and overall wealth management plan - is designed to effectively address your very specific financial needs in order to achieve your financial and spiritual goals.
Fran Bitterly has been recognized as one of Barron's Top Financial Advisors and Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors
- Forbes Best In State Wealth Management Teams - 2025
- Forbes Best In State Wealth Management Teams - 2024
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2024
- Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2024
- Forbes Best In State Wealth Management Teams - 2023
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2023
- Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2023
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2022
- Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2022
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2021
- Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2021
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2020
- Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2020
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2019
- Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2019
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2018
- Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2018
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2017
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2016
- Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2014
- Barron's Top 1,000 Financial Advisors - 2013
- Barron's Top 1,000 Financial Advisors - 2012
Disclosures:
2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State (formerly referred to as Barron's Top 1,000 Financial Advisors: State-by-State)
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024). Data compiled by Barron's based on 12-month period concluding in Sept of the year prior to the issuance of the award.
2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.
Forbes.com (Awarded 2023, 2024, 2025). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award.
Award Disclosures:(https://www.morganstanley.com/disclosures/awards-disclosure.html)
Services Include
- Business Succession PlanningFootnote1
- Financial PlanningFootnote2
- Estate Planning StrategiesFootnote3
- Wealth ManagementFootnote4
- Retirement PlanningFootnote5
- Trust ServicesFootnote6
- 401(k) Rollovers
- Alternative InvestmentsFootnote7
- Philanthropic ManagementFootnote8
- Asset Management
- Professional Portfolio ManagementFootnote9
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*
Family Wealth Director
Fran Bitterly is part of a group of fewer than 4% of Morgan Stanley Advisors who have completed the rigorous Family Wealth Director certification program as of January 2022.
This certification allows him to access an exceptional group of wealth management professionals and better assist high-net worth clients across a broad spectrum of wealth management areas including:
• Business succession planning and monetizing business ownership
• Alternative investments
• Control and restricted securities
• Equity and interest rate risk management
• Wealth transfer
• Family Governance and Dynamics
• Philanthropic Services
As your family grows and your wealth increases, you may face a broader and more complex set of wealth management challenges. As a Family Wealth Director, Fran has the extensive experience, specialized training, and the resources necessary to help you and your family address these needs. We help you create and implement a comprehensive wealth management plan based on your unique goals and aspirations.
This certification allows him to access an exceptional group of wealth management professionals and better assist high-net worth clients across a broad spectrum of wealth management areas including:
• Business succession planning and monetizing business ownership
• Alternative investments
• Control and restricted securities
• Equity and interest rate risk management
• Wealth transfer
• Family Governance and Dynamics
• Philanthropic Services
As your family grows and your wealth increases, you may face a broader and more complex set of wealth management challenges. As a Family Wealth Director, Fran has the extensive experience, specialized training, and the resources necessary to help you and your family address these needs. We help you create and implement a comprehensive wealth management plan based on your unique goals and aspirations.
Morgan Stanley Alternative Investments
Our leading alternatives platform offers 200+ third-party and proprietary funds, including first look and exclusive opportunities, that may help qualified investors enhance returns, reduce volatility, manage taxes and generate income—while maintaining a goals-based approach for asset allocation.
Learn More
Estate Planning Strategies
With you every step of the way. The Bitterly Wealth Management Group analyzes a client's tax and estate structures so that their tax characteristics are accurately incorporated in the asset allocation analysis performed for the client.
Learn more here
Charitable Giving
The Bitterly Wealth Management Group is pleased to take this opportunity to provide you with an overview of some of the common methods that individuals use to make charitable gifts, along with some important tips that you should keep in mind.
Read more
Philanthropic Planning
Your set of philanthropic objectives is as personal as your vision of a better world. Determining your objectives however, can be challenging when there are so many worthy causes and so many unmet needs.
Learn More
Wealth Education
Financial Literacy means being empowered with the knowledge to make smart financial decisions during every stage of life. Discussing family finances is especially important with adult children, no matter their age. It's not always easy, but starting the conversation is a key step in long-term wealth planning.
Financial Empowerment Across Generations
Executive Compensation: Stock and Stock Options
Executives today are increasingly compensated with
stock or stock options. A benefit of receiving stock or
options is that they allow the employee to share in the
growth of the company without making a current investment (by purchasing stock or exercising options). However, exercising stock options presents a number of difficult—and sometimes divergent—choices. Accordingly, it is critical that an executive understand the risk of investing financial assets and the potential reward of preferential income tax treatment.
Learn Morestock or stock options. A benefit of receiving stock or
options is that they allow the employee to share in the
growth of the company without making a current investment (by purchasing stock or exercising options). However, exercising stock options presents a number of difficult—and sometimes divergent—choices. Accordingly, it is critical that an executive understand the risk of investing financial assets and the potential reward of preferential income tax treatment.
In The Press
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2024
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2023
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2022
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2021
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2020
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2019
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2018
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2017
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2016
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2014
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2013
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2012
2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State (formerly referred to as Barron's Top 1,000 Financial Advisors: State-by-State)
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024). Data compiled by Barron's based on 12-month period concluding in Sept of the year prior to the issuance of the award.
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2023
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2022
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2021
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2020
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2019
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2018
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2017
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2016
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2014
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2013
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors - 2012
2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State (formerly referred to as Barron's Top 1,000 Financial Advisors: State-by-State)
Source: Barrons.com (Awarded 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024). Data compiled by Barron's based on 12-month period concluding in Sept of the year prior to the issuance of the award.
Forbes Best In State Wealth Management Teams
Forbes Best In State Wealth Management Teams - 2025
Forbes Best In State Wealth Management Teams - 2024
Forbes Best In State Wealth Management Teams - 2023
Disclosure:
Forbes.com (Awarded 2023, 2024, 2025). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award.
Award Disclosures:(https://www.morganstanley.com/disclosures/awards-disclosure.html)
Forbes Best In State Wealth Management Teams - 2024
Forbes Best In State Wealth Management Teams - 2023
Disclosure:
Forbes.com (Awarded 2023, 2024, 2025). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award.
Award Disclosures:(https://www.morganstanley.com/disclosures/awards-disclosure.html)
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2024
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2023
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2022
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2021
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2020
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2019
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2018
2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2023
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2022
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2021
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2020
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2019
Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisors - 2018
2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.
Equity Planning For Executives, Private Companies, and Stock Plan Participants
Morgan Stanley Workplace Advisor - Equity Compensation are financial advisors who receive rigorous training and education on company specific plans to service their clients’ needs. These designated advisors can help you determine how your equity compensation fits into your overall goals and financial strategy. Our team focuses on:
- Educating recipients of equity awards on their value and tax qualities
- Developing custom strategies to integrate equity compensation into broader financial plan
- Working with other advisors (ex. Accountant/CPA) to create option exercise strategies in order to help achieve lower tax rates on sales and avoid AMT tax
- Executing strategies in an effort to maximize the value of employer stock grants and employee stock purchase plans
- Working with Executives to put together 10b5-1 plans for employee trading
- Supporting private and public companies with their needs through every stage of their business
- Educating recipients of equity awards on their value and tax qualities
- Developing custom strategies to integrate equity compensation into broader financial plan
- Working with other advisors (ex. Accountant/CPA) to create option exercise strategies in order to help achieve lower tax rates on sales and avoid AMT tax
- Executing strategies in an effort to maximize the value of employer stock grants and employee stock purchase plans
- Working with Executives to put together 10b5-1 plans for employee trading
- Supporting private and public companies with their needs through every stage of their business
Morgan Stanley at Work
Whether you’re a global corporation or a growing start-up, we understand your needs and offer tailored solutions and technology to help meet them.
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Work & Money Learning Center
Explore resources and insights designed to help you make the most of your financial life at every stage.
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Managing a Concentrated Position with an Exchange Fund
We can help qualified investors unlock solutions that enable you to diversify in a tax-smart way.
Click Here to Learn More
Private Markets Secondary Transaction Desk
Companies are staying private longer, warranting the need for liquidity solutions. Through our Private Market Secondary Transaction Desk, qualified investors can gain access to buy and sell a distinct array of private market opportunities stemming from Morgan Stanley's unique ecosystem encompassing Companies, Wealth Management Clients, and Institutional Investors.
Click Here to Learn More
Executive Financial Services, Rule 144, 10b5-1 Trading Plans and More
As an Executive Financial Services Director, I can help you manage both your equity compensation and complex financial needs so you can focus on moving your company forward.
Click Here to Learn More
Liquidity Planning: IPO, Corporate Tenders, M&A Readiness
We help companies access tailored solutions and support to run liquidity events and manage secondary transactions with confidence.
Click Here to Learn More
Equity Cap Table Management with Shareworks
Simplify cap table management and provide a unified, real-time view for stakeholders with an intuitive digital solution.
Click Here to Learn More
409A Valuations at Every Stage of Growth
The numbers make it clear: We know 409A Valuations. Feel confident in yours with decades of experience and domain knowledge on your side.
Click Here to Learn MoreFinancial Resources
Here at Morgan Stanley, we strive to simplify complex financial ideas so that our clients understand what is being done on their behalf to plan for their financial future. We are firm believers of providing our clients with as many resources as possible so they can stay informed about the latest market trends, outlooks, and breakdowns.
The Bitterly Wealth Management Group Newsletter
Check out the latest installment of our monthly Newsletter.
Read More
Mike Wilson: Thoughts On The Market
With perspectives on the forces shaping the market, join Mike Wilson, Chief Investment Officer and Chief US Equity Strategist for Morgan Stanley, as he and his colleagues discuss a variety of viewpoints regarding the latest trends in the financial marketplace.
This Week's Podcast With Mike Wilson
Global Investment Committee On The Markets
A monthly publication that summarizes the Global Investment Committee’s market outlook and contains thought-provoking essays that examine the forces shaping the investment landscape. Check out this month's edition below.
Read: "GIC On The Markets"
GIC Weekly
The Global Investment Committee's Lisa Shalett headlines this weekly look at markets, asset class performance and fixed income. Click the link below to read the full report.
Read: "GIC Weekly"
2024 Federal Income Tax Tables
For help filing your taxes this year, our team has published the 2024 tax tables for your reference. Please click the link below to view them.
Read: "Tax Tables"
Your Guide to Tax-Efficient Planning
The tax decisions you make today can help you save for years to come. Consider these smart tax strategies for your financial plan.
Read: "Your Guide to Tax-Efficient Planning"Location
20 Linden Place
Red Bank, NJ 07701
US
Direct:
(732) 224-3754(732) 224-3754
Toll-Free:
(866) 610-8763(866) 610-8763
Fax:
(732) 935-2097(732) 935-2097
Meet The Bitterly Wealth Management Group
Phone:
(732) 224-3824(732) 224-3824
Miriam Lerdo
Vice President, Wealth Management Associate
James Dorsa
Vice President, Portfolio Management Associate Director
Clelia DiMaggio
Wealth Management Associate
Kim Vazquez
Vice President, Director of Business Strategy
Phone:
(732) 936-3443(732) 936-3443
About Francis G Bitterly
For over 35 years, Fran has been dedicated to providing his clients with guidance, advice and support as they transition through the stages of wealth accumulation, wealth preservation and wealth transfer. Fran is committed to helping clients make wise and informed decisions about their money enabling them to achieve what is most important to them. Fran and his team provide a broad, comprehensive approach to helping clients address their financial lives and beyond. This comprehensive wealth management approach means more than just taking care of your investments. It also means addressing your advanced planning needs, including wealth enhancement, wealth transfer and charitable giving. Fran believes you owe it to your family and yourself to be sure that your investment plan – and overall wealth management plan – is designed to effectively address your very specific needs.
Fran spent the greater part of his professional career, 23 years, at Merrill Lynch Private Client group where he was recognized as a Senior Wealth Management Advisor and First Vice President of Investments. In 2008, Fran and his team transitioned to Morgan Stanley where he continues to focus on servicing the comprehensive needs of high net worth individuals, families, corporations and small institutions by utilizing the vast resources available at Morgan Stanley. Fran chooses to work only with those individuals that he believes he can make a meaningful impact on their financial lives and beyond – he wants to not only meet, but exceed their expectations.
Fran graduated from Rutgers University School of Management in 1984. He remains steadfast in his commitment to continually enhancing his knowledge and skill set. His level of professionalism is demonstrated through his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER designation and Board of Standards membership achieved in 2001.
Fran enjoys spending his spare time reading, golfing, walking his dogs and with his children. Fran and his wife, Lisa, have been married for over 33 years and have three daughters which have been their most valuable assets.
Fran spent the greater part of his professional career, 23 years, at Merrill Lynch Private Client group where he was recognized as a Senior Wealth Management Advisor and First Vice President of Investments. In 2008, Fran and his team transitioned to Morgan Stanley where he continues to focus on servicing the comprehensive needs of high net worth individuals, families, corporations and small institutions by utilizing the vast resources available at Morgan Stanley. Fran chooses to work only with those individuals that he believes he can make a meaningful impact on their financial lives and beyond – he wants to not only meet, but exceed their expectations.
Fran graduated from Rutgers University School of Management in 1984. He remains steadfast in his commitment to continually enhancing his knowledge and skill set. His level of professionalism is demonstrated through his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER designation and Board of Standards membership achieved in 2001.
Fran enjoys spending his spare time reading, golfing, walking his dogs and with his children. Fran and his wife, Lisa, have been married for over 33 years and have three daughters which have been their most valuable assets.
Securities Agent: FL, TX, OH, NY, IN, UT, MI, ME, DC, CT, TN, MA, KY, HI, VT, NC, WA, VA, SC, NJ, IL, DE, CO, MD, CA, AZ, PA, NH; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1290621
NMLS#: 1290621
About Catherine Mannes, CFP®
Catherine is a Financial Advisor with The Bitterly Group. She has over 10 years of experience in the industry and assists with client relationships management, business development, asset management research and execution of the advanced planning process. She holds a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation as well as series 7, series 66 securities, and State Life Insurance and Accidental & Health licenses. Prior to working at Morgan Stanley she spent over three years at BlackRock where she worked with Financial Advisors across the country consulting them on portfolio construction, blending active/passive solutions and helping them build their respective practices through multiple value add practices for clients.
Catherine graduated from Ursinus College earning a Bachelor of Arts in Media and Communications while minoring in Business Management and Studio Arts. She was also an NCAA Division III Collegiate Field Hockey player and three-time conference champion and national semi-finalist where she served as team captain and earned All-Region and All-Conference awards.
In Catherine's spare time she enjoys exercising, racquet sports, participating in different philanthropic events, and most importantly spending time with her husband Eric, her dog Rosie, and her two children who she adores.
Catherine graduated from Ursinus College earning a Bachelor of Arts in Media and Communications while minoring in Business Management and Studio Arts. She was also an NCAA Division III Collegiate Field Hockey player and three-time conference champion and national semi-finalist where she served as team captain and earned All-Region and All-Conference awards.
In Catherine's spare time she enjoys exercising, racquet sports, participating in different philanthropic events, and most importantly spending time with her husband Eric, her dog Rosie, and her two children who she adores.
Securities Agent: NY, DC, VA, SC, AZ, NH, CA, NC, MI, NJ, MA, IN, IL, CO, WA, DE, ME, MD, AL, VT, PA, KY, HI, FL, UT, OH, CT, TX, TN; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1638799
NMLS#: 1638799
About Miriam Lerdo
Miriam has been a key member of Fran's team since 1995. She is responsible for executing on Fran's investment philosophy and ensuring clients experience exceptional personal quality service. Miriam works closely with Fran to implement his investment consultative process and to provide clients with a comprehensive wealth management plan. Miriam is also focused on connecting clients with internal associates in lending and insurance to provide a broad range of solutions for clients as part of The Bitterly Group's wealth management consultative approach.
Miriam's tenured career has spanned 45 years in the financial industry. She spent 30 years at Merrill Lynch, before transitioning with Fran to Morgan Stanley* in 2008. She holds her Series 7 and Series 66 securities licenses. Miriam is a Vice President and assumes the role of Wealth Management Associate for The Bitterly Wealth Management Group. Outside of work, Miriam enjoys spending her free time with her family and friends, especially her precious grandchildren. She has been married for 43 years and has three daughters. Miriam's favorite pastimes include cooking, entertaining and photography.
Miriam's tenured career has spanned 45 years in the financial industry. She spent 30 years at Merrill Lynch, before transitioning with Fran to Morgan Stanley* in 2008. She holds her Series 7 and Series 66 securities licenses. Miriam is a Vice President and assumes the role of Wealth Management Associate for The Bitterly Wealth Management Group. Outside of work, Miriam enjoys spending her free time with her family and friends, especially her precious grandchildren. She has been married for 43 years and has three daughters. Miriam's favorite pastimes include cooking, entertaining and photography.
About James Dorsa
James is a Vice President and currently serves as the Portfolio Management Associate Director of The Bitterly Group. Prior to joining The Bitterly Group in 2017, James held positions within the firm as an Investment Officer for the Personal Trust Department and Portfolio Manager in the Private Portfolio Group. In his prior role, he specialized in building custom, tax efficient portfolios for Financial Advisors and their high-net-worth clients as well as spearheading new client transitions.
James graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Media Studies and holds his Series 7 and Series 66 securities licenses. In his spare time, James likes to stay active by playing on several recreational sports teams and is also an avid snowboarder and golfer. James lives locally in Lincroft where above all else he enjoys spending time with his wife, daughter and their chocolate lab, Lola.
James graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Media Studies and holds his Series 7 and Series 66 securities licenses. In his spare time, James likes to stay active by playing on several recreational sports teams and is also an avid snowboarder and golfer. James lives locally in Lincroft where above all else he enjoys spending time with his wife, daughter and their chocolate lab, Lola.
About Clelia DiMaggio
Clelia joined The Bitterly Group in March 2013. Her primary role is providing administrative support to clients as it relates to their accounts. She handles incoming calls, new account opening and paperwork, incoming account transfer paperwork, death and estate distributions, IRA distributions, check requests and many other tasks on the operational side of the financial advisory business. Clelia is a valued member of the team due to her attention to detail when multi-tasking her daily workflow and her flexibility in responding to the changing needs of the clients and team.
Clelia's experience in the financial industry spans 29 years. Prior to joining The Bitterly Group, she held positions at National Financial Services Corporation, Fidelity Investments, Aegis Capital and Merrill Lynch. Clelia has gained a keen insight on the financial markets from her various positions held on both the trading and brokerage sides of the industry. She holds her Series 7 and Series 66 securities licenses. Clelia enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She has been married for 29 years and has two daughters.
Clelia's experience in the financial industry spans 29 years. Prior to joining The Bitterly Group, she held positions at National Financial Services Corporation, Fidelity Investments, Aegis Capital and Merrill Lynch. Clelia has gained a keen insight on the financial markets from her various positions held on both the trading and brokerage sides of the industry. She holds her Series 7 and Series 66 securities licenses. Clelia enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She has been married for 29 years and has two daughters.
About Kim Vazquez
Kimberly joined The Bitterly Wealth Management Group in early 2023 and has 25 years experience in the financial industry. Prior to joining The Bitterly Group, she spent 23 years at Goldman Sachs as a Vice President in their Private Wealth Management Group where she collaborated with Private Wealth Advisors to oversee client portfolios and develop strategic and tactical investment and wealth management strategies for individuals, families, foundations and endowments. She holds her Series 7, 63 and 66 securities licenses.
Kimberly graduated from the University of Scranton with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management and a minor in French. She enjoys spending her free time with her husband and two boys, volunteering in the Monmouth County area, practicing yoga, waterskiing and participating in triathlons.
Kimberly graduated from the University of Scranton with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management and a minor in French. She enjoys spending her free time with her husband and two boys, volunteering in the Monmouth County area, practicing yoga, waterskiing and participating in triathlons.
Contact Francis G Bitterly
Contact Catherine Mannes, CFP®
The Power of Partnerships
By partnering with experienced individuals across wealth disciplines, Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors can align specialized resources with your custom needs and deliver strategic guidance through the familiarity and trust of existing relationships
Anthony Viskovic
Private Banker
About Anthony Viskovic
Anthony Viskovic is a Private Banker serving Morgan Stanley Wealth Management offices in New Jersey.
Private Bankers partner with Financial Advisors to develop a specialized approach for managing clients’ cash flow, liquidity and financing needs, leveraging our comprehensive suite of cash management and lending solutions.
Anthony began his career in financial services in 2004, and joined Morgan Stanley in 2010 as a Regional Lending Advisor. Prior to joining the firm, he was an Internal Banking Consultant at UBS Financial Services.
Anthony is a graduate of Rutgers University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics. He lives in Ocean, New Jersey with his family. Outside of the office, Anthony enjoys being active, cooking, traveling and spending time with his family.
Private Bankers partner with Financial Advisors to develop a specialized approach for managing clients’ cash flow, liquidity and financing needs, leveraging our comprehensive suite of cash management and lending solutions.
Anthony began his career in financial services in 2004, and joined Morgan Stanley in 2010 as a Regional Lending Advisor. Prior to joining the firm, he was an Internal Banking Consultant at UBS Financial Services.
Anthony is a graduate of Rutgers University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics. He lives in Ocean, New Jersey with his family. Outside of the office, Anthony enjoys being active, cooking, traveling and spending time with his family.
NMLS#: 1427370
Wealth Management
Global Investment Office
Portfolio Insights
Business Planning
Helping you on key aspects of your business such as ownership, liquidity and developing opportunities.
- Succession Planning
- Business Planning
- Qualified Retirement Plans
Financial Planning for Life After Selling a Business
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Family
Creating customized financial strategies for the challenges that today’s families face.
- Estate Planning Strategies
- 529 Plans / Education Savings Planning
- Long Term Care Insurance
- Special Needs Planning
- Trust Services
Investing
Working closely with you to guide your wealth and investments through the most challenging market cycles.
- Asset Management
- Wealth Planning
- Traditional Investments
- Alternative Investments
- Impact Investing
Mosaic
Explore ideas and inspiration with captivating, original lifestyle stories created exclusively for Morgan Stanley clients.
A Change of Greenery
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Philanthropy
Making sure your philanthropic dollars are managed with the same high quality service as the rest of your wealth.
- Endowments
- Foundations
- Donor Advised Funds
- Impact Investing
Donor Advised Funds: A Smart Way to Manage Your Giving
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Retirement
Working with you to understand your life goals and develop a personalized wealth strategy. Today and for the years to come.
- 401(k) Rollovers
- IRA Plans
- Retirement income strategies
- Retirement plan participants
- Annuities
Financial Wellness
Enhancing Financial Wellness enables your workforce to do their best work. Companies that invest in financial wellness have an opportunity to:
- Reduce employee stress,
- Improve retention and engagement, and
- Set themselves apart by offering comprehensive financial wellness benefits.
Ready to start a conversation? Contact The Bitterly Wealth Management Group today.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.
1Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for legal matters.
For more information, please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC Client Relationship Summary.
2Morgan Stanley offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences or review our Understanding Your Brokerage and Investment Advisory Relationships brochure available at www.morganstanley.com/wealth-relationshipwithms/pdfs/understandingyourrelationship.pdf.
3Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters.
4Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is the trade name of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, a registered broker-dealer in the United States.
5When Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors (collectively, “Morgan Stanley”) provide “investment advice” regarding a retirement or welfare benefit plan account, an individual retirement account or a Coverdell education savings account (“Retirement Account”), Morgan Stanley is a “fiduciary” as those terms are defined under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”), and/or the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”), as applicable. When Morgan Stanley provides investment education, takes orders on an unsolicited basis or otherwise does not provide “investment advice”, Morgan Stanley will not be considered a “fiduciary” under ERISA and/or the Code. For more information regarding Morgan Stanley’s role with respect to a Retirement Account, please visit www.morganstanley.com/disclosures/dol. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Morgan Stanley does not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals are encouraged to consult their tax and legal advisors (a) before establishing a Retirement Account, and (b) regarding any potential tax, ERISA and related consequences of any investments or other transactions made with respect to a Retirement Account. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.
6Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC does not accept appointments nor will it act as a trustee but it will provide access to trust services through an appropriate third-party corporate trustee.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters.
7Alternative Investments are speculative and include a high degree of risk. An investor could lose all or a substantial amount of his/her investment. Alternative investments are appropriate only for qualified, long-term investors who are willing to forgo liquidity and put capital at risk for an indefinite period of time.
8Products and services are provided by third party service providers, not Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”). Morgan Stanley may not receive a referral fee or have any input concerning such products or services. There may be additional service providers for comparative purposes. Please perform a thorough due diligence and make your own independent decision.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.
9Morgan Stanley’s investment advisory programs may require a minimum asset level and, depending on your specific investment objectives and financial position, may not be appropriate for you. Please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC program disclosure brochure (the “Morgan Stanley ADV”) for more information in the investment advisory programs available. The Morgan Stanley ADV is available at www.morganstanley.com/ADV.
Check the background of our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck*.
The information, products and services described here are intended only for individuals residing in states where this Financial Advisor is properly registered as described in this site.
Morgan Stanley reserves the right, to the extent permitted under applicable law, to retain and monitor all electronic communications. Morgan Stanley will not accept purchase or sale orders via any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. Morgan Stanley does not endorse and is not responsible and assumes no liability for content, products or services posted by third-parties on any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. All electronic communications are subject to terms available at the following link:
https://www.morganstanley.com/disclaimers/mswm-email.html. Any profiles and associated content are for U.S. residents only.
The securities/instruments, services, investments and investment strategies discussed in this material may not be appropriate for all investors. The appropriateness of a particular investment, investment strategy or service will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments, strategies and services, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor or Private Wealth Advisor. This material does not provide individually tailored investment advice. It has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for legal matters.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) is not implying an affiliation, sponsorship, endorsement with/of the third party or that any monitoring is being done by Morgan Stanley of any information contained within the website. Morgan Stanley is not responsible for the information contained on the third-party website or the use of or inability to use such site. Nor do we guarantee their accuracy or completeness.
The views, opinions or advice contained within third party websites or materials are solely those of the author, who is not a Morgan Stanley employee, and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, or its affiliates. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be appropriate for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives.
*References to length of service at Morgan Stanley include years at Morgan Stanley and predecessor firms.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S, which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.
The use of the CDFA designation does not permit the rendering of legal advice by Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney. The CDFA designation is not intended to imply that either Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors are acting as experts in this field.
Awards Disclosures
1Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for legal matters.
For more information, please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC Client Relationship Summary.
2Morgan Stanley offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences or review our Understanding Your Brokerage and Investment Advisory Relationships brochure available at www.morganstanley.com/wealth-relationshipwithms/pdfs/understandingyourrelationship.pdf.
3Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters.
4Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is the trade name of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, a registered broker-dealer in the United States.
5When Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors (collectively, “Morgan Stanley”) provide “investment advice” regarding a retirement or welfare benefit plan account, an individual retirement account or a Coverdell education savings account (“Retirement Account”), Morgan Stanley is a “fiduciary” as those terms are defined under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”), and/or the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”), as applicable. When Morgan Stanley provides investment education, takes orders on an unsolicited basis or otherwise does not provide “investment advice”, Morgan Stanley will not be considered a “fiduciary” under ERISA and/or the Code. For more information regarding Morgan Stanley’s role with respect to a Retirement Account, please visit www.morganstanley.com/disclosures/dol. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Morgan Stanley does not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals are encouraged to consult their tax and legal advisors (a) before establishing a Retirement Account, and (b) regarding any potential tax, ERISA and related consequences of any investments or other transactions made with respect to a Retirement Account. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.
6Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC does not accept appointments nor will it act as a trustee but it will provide access to trust services through an appropriate third-party corporate trustee.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters.
7Alternative Investments are speculative and include a high degree of risk. An investor could lose all or a substantial amount of his/her investment. Alternative investments are appropriate only for qualified, long-term investors who are willing to forgo liquidity and put capital at risk for an indefinite period of time.
8Products and services are provided by third party service providers, not Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”). Morgan Stanley may not receive a referral fee or have any input concerning such products or services. There may be additional service providers for comparative purposes. Please perform a thorough due diligence and make your own independent decision.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.
9Morgan Stanley’s investment advisory programs may require a minimum asset level and, depending on your specific investment objectives and financial position, may not be appropriate for you. Please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC program disclosure brochure (the “Morgan Stanley ADV”) for more information in the investment advisory programs available. The Morgan Stanley ADV is available at www.morganstanley.com/ADV.
Check the background of our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck*.
The information, products and services described here are intended only for individuals residing in states where this Financial Advisor is properly registered as described in this site.
Morgan Stanley reserves the right, to the extent permitted under applicable law, to retain and monitor all electronic communications. Morgan Stanley will not accept purchase or sale orders via any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. Morgan Stanley does not endorse and is not responsible and assumes no liability for content, products or services posted by third-parties on any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. All electronic communications are subject to terms available at the following link:
https://www.morganstanley.com/disclaimers/mswm-email.html. Any profiles and associated content are for U.S. residents only.
The securities/instruments, services, investments and investment strategies discussed in this material may not be appropriate for all investors. The appropriateness of a particular investment, investment strategy or service will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments, strategies and services, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor or Private Wealth Advisor. This material does not provide individually tailored investment advice. It has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for legal matters.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) is not implying an affiliation, sponsorship, endorsement with/of the third party or that any monitoring is being done by Morgan Stanley of any information contained within the website. Morgan Stanley is not responsible for the information contained on the third-party website or the use of or inability to use such site. Nor do we guarantee their accuracy or completeness.
The views, opinions or advice contained within third party websites or materials are solely those of the author, who is not a Morgan Stanley employee, and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, or its affiliates. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be appropriate for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives.
*References to length of service at Morgan Stanley include years at Morgan Stanley and predecessor firms.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S, which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.
The use of the CDFA designation does not permit the rendering of legal advice by Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney. The CDFA designation is not intended to imply that either Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors are acting as experts in this field.
Awards Disclosures
CRC 6491812 (04/2024)
