Sean P Moran
Managing Director, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor, Family Wealth Advisor, Lending Specialist
Phone:
(248) 258-2718(248) 258-2718
The M-1 Group at Morgan Stanley
Sean P MoranJeffrey HoppieScott M Strickland, CFP®, CIMA®, CAIA, CPWA®, CRPS®Daniel J. SakalianDavid DiFiore, CFA®
Direct:
(248) 258-2718(248) 258-2718
Toll-Free:
(800) 879-5318(800) 879-5318
Industry Award WinnerOur Mission Statement
Providing personalized, tailored solutions to preserve and grow wealth for your long-term goals
Welcome
The M-1 Group at Morgan Stanley is a team of dedicated financial professionals with extensive experience. We evaluate portfolios for people who don’t have the time, information, or resources to do it effectively themselves. Our clients are high net worth families – that is, business owners, corporate executives, and retirees – or small to mid-sized companies that want to benefit from goal-oriented financial planning. We are interested in long-term relationships, not individual transactions. We design detailed financial plans for our clients, taking into account their investment needs, their ability or willingness to assume risk, their time horizon, and other factors that may affect their investment decisions. We are Family Wealth Advisors, Morgan Stanley designated financial professionals, who believe that you - as one of our most important clients - are entitled to a different kind of working relationship with the firm. In fact, it is a type of relationship that you have probably not encountered before. As Family Wealth Advisors, we bring the scope and influence of the differentiating resources of Morgan Stanley to our most valued clients.This combination of personal attention and financial possibilities can help create opportunities for you. Your financial life requires the broadest possible scope of knowledge, and we are committed to helping you have an experience that is easier and rewarding.We look forward to working with you and your family.
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*
How much of your savings should you be investing? Should you share your finances with a significant other? How do you know when you’re ready to buy a home, or start a business? When is the right time to discuss Estate Planning with your family? If you’re wrestling with some of these questions, these documents provide guidance.
Relationship Building Process
The M-1 Group is committed to helping our clients achieve their financial goals by understanding their needs, offering quality investment advice, and striving to provide unparalleled service.
Discover
Our relationship begins with a thorough understanding of your needs, priorities, and goals for the future. We also take a complete inventory of your employer holdings and benefits programs, as well as your current investments and liabilities.
Create
We develop a tailored roadmap to help achieve and protect the outcomes you seek.
Act
Next, we help you implement the strategies we formulate together, integrating your company equity holdings into your overall strategy. We'll also plan the exercise of stock options and the sale of eligible restricted or control securities.
Adjust
Achieving your goals requires vigilance and flexibility. We help to monitor your progress and make adjustments as life evolves, markets and tax laws shift, and priorities change.
Location
34901 Woodward Ave
Ste 300
Birmingham, MI 48009
US
Direct:
(248) 258-2718(248) 258-2718
Toll-Free:
(800) 879-5318(800) 879-5318
Fax:
(248) 430-8238(248) 430-8238
Meet The M-1 Group
Jeffrey Hoppie
Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor, Portfolio Manager
Phone:
(248) 258-3239(248) 258-3239
Daniel J. Sakalian
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor, Global Sports and Entertainment Director, Alternative Investments Director
Phone:
(248) 593-2472(248) 593-2472
Scott M Strickland, CFP®, CIMA®, CAIA, CPWA®, CRPS®
Executive Director, Family Wealth Director, Senior Investment Management Consultant, Alternative Investments Director, Corporate Retirement Director, Financial Advisor
Phone:
(248) 258-2716(248) 258-2716
David DiFiore, CFA®
Financial Advisor, Workplace Advisor - Equity Compensation, Alternative Investments Director
Phone:
(248) 258-6157(248) 258-6157
Mary E. Fugelsang
Wealth Management Associate, National Service Council Member, Cash Engagement Specialist*
Phone:
(248) 258-8717(248) 258-8717
Michelle L. Lively
Wealth Management Analyst
Phone:
(248) 258-1798(248) 258-1798
Nick Bonema
Registered Client Service Associate
Phone:
(248) 593-7559(248) 593-7559
About Sean P Moran
Sean P. Moran
Managing Director
Senior Investment Management Consultant
Family Wealth Advisor
Financial Advisor
The M-1 Group at Morgan Stanley
As a fully registered Financial Advisor for thirty two years with Morgan Stanley, Sean has achieved a great deal of success in business, family and the community by focusing on commitment and loyalty.
His business success has been derived from his personal commitment to assisting clients. He organizes and manages his client’s financial affairs to align with their unique goals and needs. His solution-based approach encompasses a broad range of financial issues that helps to ensure a consistent financial plan. Sean’s clients view him as their primary Financial Advisor, and they seek his advice on a wide array of financial matters.
As alumnus of The University of Detroit with a Bachelor of Science in Finance, Sean continues to expand his learning by participating in numerous industry-related educational programs that keep him in tune with the ever-changing financial landscape.
Sean is active with many local philanthropic institutions and has been a loyal activist in empowering the youth of Detroit, including being a Co-Founder of Racquet Up Detroit that serves the youth in Detroit in an after school educational and athletic program. Sean also serves on the Boards of the Parade Company and Belle Isle Conservancy.
Sean was the 94th President of The Detroit Athletic Club in 2011.
Sean and his wife Christa are the proud parents of four children, and they reside in Bloomfield Village, Michigan. His personal activities are baseball, basketball, bowling, and coaching his children’s sports teams.
Managing Director
Senior Investment Management Consultant
Family Wealth Advisor
Financial Advisor
The M-1 Group at Morgan Stanley
As a fully registered Financial Advisor for thirty two years with Morgan Stanley, Sean has achieved a great deal of success in business, family and the community by focusing on commitment and loyalty.
His business success has been derived from his personal commitment to assisting clients. He organizes and manages his client’s financial affairs to align with their unique goals and needs. His solution-based approach encompasses a broad range of financial issues that helps to ensure a consistent financial plan. Sean’s clients view him as their primary Financial Advisor, and they seek his advice on a wide array of financial matters.
As alumnus of The University of Detroit with a Bachelor of Science in Finance, Sean continues to expand his learning by participating in numerous industry-related educational programs that keep him in tune with the ever-changing financial landscape.
Sean is active with many local philanthropic institutions and has been a loyal activist in empowering the youth of Detroit, including being a Co-Founder of Racquet Up Detroit that serves the youth in Detroit in an after school educational and athletic program. Sean also serves on the Boards of the Parade Company and Belle Isle Conservancy.
Sean was the 94th President of The Detroit Athletic Club in 2011.
Sean and his wife Christa are the proud parents of four children, and they reside in Bloomfield Village, Michigan. His personal activities are baseball, basketball, bowling, and coaching his children’s sports teams.
Securities Agent: IN, FL, PA, MO, MN, MI, TN, NC, WY, SC, MD, MA, IL, GA, DE, UT, OH, ME, WA, CA, AZ, VA, NY, TX, OK, KY, CO, WI, NV, NJ; BM/Supervisor; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1255349
NMLS#: 1255349
About Jeffrey Hoppie
Jeff has more than 38 years of experience as a fully registered Financial Advisor. He has achieved a great deal of success in many areas by being well informed, empathetic, and straightforward.
Jeff is also a Portfolio Manager, Senior Vice President and is the Chief Investment Officer for the M1 Group. He directly assists team members in developing clients’ asset allocations along with highlighting specific investments. Through his guidance, numerous financial advisors have become very successful in helping their clients.
Jeff's broad and depth of knowledge in the financial industry has helped him through the many years in guiding his clients towards achieving their unique goals and expectations. This has helped enable his clients in simplifying their lives and sleeping easy at night. This is highlighted by being awarded the Five Star Wealth Manager award for twelve consecutive years beginning in 2012 through 2023.
Jeff is active in the community, participating with several charities and a strong supporter of the Folds of Honor, Fallen and Wounded Soldiers Fund and Suite Dreams Project.
He is a proud parent of his daughter Sarah along with his granddaughter Avery. He cherishes his free time through working out at the gym along with boating and golfing with family and friends.
2012 - 2023 Five Star Wealth Manager Award
This award was issued in 2012-2023 based on an evaluation process as described below. This evaluation was based on the time periods indicated below and was conducted by Five Star Professional (FSP) that considered, among other factors, the following:
• Favorable regulatory and complaint history review. As defined by FSP, the wealth manager has not: 1.) Been subject to a regulatory action that resulted in a license being suspended or revoked, or payment of a fine; 2.) Had more than a total of three settled or pending complaints filed against them and/or a total of five settled, pending, dismissed, or denied complaints with any regulatory authority or FSP’s consumer complaint process.
• Personal bankruptcy filing within the past 11 years.
• Termination from a financial services firm within the past 11 years.
• Conviction of a felony.
• One-year client retention rate.
• Five-year client retention rate.
Five Star Professional, as a third-party research firm, identified pre-qualified award candidates based on industry data and contacted all identified broker dealers, Registered Investment Advisor firms and FINRA-registered representatives to gather wealth manager nominations. Self-nominations are not accepted. Wealth managers and/or their firms do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final list of Five Star Wealth Managers.
2012 Award – 10/22/11 – 03/09/12
2013 Award – 10/22/12 – 03/09/13
2014 Award – 10/22/13 – 03/09/14
2015 Award – 10/22/14 – 03/09/15
2016 Award – 10/22/15 – 03/09/16
2017 Award – 08/24/16 – 02/24/17
2018 Award – 08/30/17 – 03/19/18
2019 Award – 08/21/18 – 03/19/19
2020 Award – 08/01/19 – 03/20/20
2021 Award – 08/10/20 – 03/19/21
2022 Award – 09/03/21 – 03/11/22
2023 Award – 09/05/22 – 03/03/23
For more information on the Five Star award and the research/selection methodology, go to fivestarprofessional.com.
©2024 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC
Jeff is also a Portfolio Manager, Senior Vice President and is the Chief Investment Officer for the M1 Group. He directly assists team members in developing clients’ asset allocations along with highlighting specific investments. Through his guidance, numerous financial advisors have become very successful in helping their clients.
Jeff's broad and depth of knowledge in the financial industry has helped him through the many years in guiding his clients towards achieving their unique goals and expectations. This has helped enable his clients in simplifying their lives and sleeping easy at night. This is highlighted by being awarded the Five Star Wealth Manager award for twelve consecutive years beginning in 2012 through 2023.
Jeff is active in the community, participating with several charities and a strong supporter of the Folds of Honor, Fallen and Wounded Soldiers Fund and Suite Dreams Project.
He is a proud parent of his daughter Sarah along with his granddaughter Avery. He cherishes his free time through working out at the gym along with boating and golfing with family and friends.
2012 - 2023 Five Star Wealth Manager Award
This award was issued in 2012-2023 based on an evaluation process as described below. This evaluation was based on the time periods indicated below and was conducted by Five Star Professional (FSP) that considered, among other factors, the following:
• Favorable regulatory and complaint history review. As defined by FSP, the wealth manager has not: 1.) Been subject to a regulatory action that resulted in a license being suspended or revoked, or payment of a fine; 2.) Had more than a total of three settled or pending complaints filed against them and/or a total of five settled, pending, dismissed, or denied complaints with any regulatory authority or FSP’s consumer complaint process.
• Personal bankruptcy filing within the past 11 years.
• Termination from a financial services firm within the past 11 years.
• Conviction of a felony.
• One-year client retention rate.
• Five-year client retention rate.
Five Star Professional, as a third-party research firm, identified pre-qualified award candidates based on industry data and contacted all identified broker dealers, Registered Investment Advisor firms and FINRA-registered representatives to gather wealth manager nominations. Self-nominations are not accepted. Wealth managers and/or their firms do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final list of Five Star Wealth Managers.
2012 Award – 10/22/11 – 03/09/12
2013 Award – 10/22/12 – 03/09/13
2014 Award – 10/22/13 – 03/09/14
2015 Award – 10/22/14 – 03/09/15
2016 Award – 10/22/15 – 03/09/16
2017 Award – 08/24/16 – 02/24/17
2018 Award – 08/30/17 – 03/19/18
2019 Award – 08/21/18 – 03/19/19
2020 Award – 08/01/19 – 03/20/20
2021 Award – 08/10/20 – 03/19/21
2022 Award – 09/03/21 – 03/11/22
2023 Award – 09/05/22 – 03/03/23
For more information on the Five Star award and the research/selection methodology, go to fivestarprofessional.com.
©2024 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC
Securities Agent: WI, IN, CA, MO, UT, TN, ME, WY, VA, NV, MA, DE, CO, OH, SC, NY, NC, MN, PA, KY, AZ, MI, ID, FL, AL, WA, TX, OK, NJ, IL, GA, NM, MD; BM/Supervisor; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Transactional Futures/Commodities; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1282833
NMLS#: 1282833
About Daniel J. Sakalian
Daniel J. Sakalian is a Senior Vice President, Global Sports & Entertainment Director, Alternative Investment Director, and Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley. He has over a decade of experience in the financial services industry and has been with the firm since 2015.
Growing up with two hard working parents, and a father who is a business owner, taught Dan that hard work, integrity, and attention to detail are very important attributes to being successful. He also discovered the importance of teamwork and how to deal with adversity from playing competitive sports, including junior hockey.
In 2018, Dan became a partner of the M-1 Group because he believes that each client should have the ability and benefits of working with a team. As a result, this transition has allowed him to not only lead with the exceptional ideas and strategies of Morgan Stanley, but also provides personalized top notch service, leverage the experience of the team, and utilize the vast resources the firm has to offer.
Dan earned a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Michigan State University’s Eli Broad College of Business. He holds the General Securities Representative License (Series 7), Uniform Combined State Law License (Series 66), Resident Producer: Accident and Health, Life Insurance and Variable Annuities Licenses, and a National Mortgage License.
Dan has been named to Morgan Stanley’s prestigious Pacesetter’s Club from 2021 to 2023 and has also earned multiple industry recognitions, including Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Team (2025–2026), Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisor (2026), and Top Next-Gen Best-in-State Wealth Advisor (2024–2025). He is also a five-time Five Star Wealth Manager award recipient (2021-2025). Dan and his wife, Sofia, currently reside in Birmingham, Michigan. In his free time, Dan enjoys golf, hockey, giving back to the community, and spending time in Northern Michigan.
2025, 2026 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams Source: Forbes (Awarded Jan 2025, 2026) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period 3/31/23-3/31/25.
2026 Forbes America’s Top Wealth Advisors and Best-In-State Wealth Advisors Source: Forbes.com (Awarded April 2026) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC for the period 6/30/24-6/30/25.
2024-2025 Forbes Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors & Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Best-In-State Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Aug 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 3/31/22–3/31/24.
2021-2025 Five Star Wealth Manager Award
Source: fivestarprofessional.com (Awarded 2021-2023) These awards were determined through an evaluation process conducted by Five Star Professional, based on objective criteria, during the following periods:
2021 Award - 08/10/20 - 03/19/21
2022 Award - 09/03/21 - 03/11/22
2023 Award - 09/05/22 - 03/03/23
2024 Award - 9/05/23 - 2/29/24
2025 Award - 08/21/24 - 2/28/25
Growing up with two hard working parents, and a father who is a business owner, taught Dan that hard work, integrity, and attention to detail are very important attributes to being successful. He also discovered the importance of teamwork and how to deal with adversity from playing competitive sports, including junior hockey.
In 2018, Dan became a partner of the M-1 Group because he believes that each client should have the ability and benefits of working with a team. As a result, this transition has allowed him to not only lead with the exceptional ideas and strategies of Morgan Stanley, but also provides personalized top notch service, leverage the experience of the team, and utilize the vast resources the firm has to offer.
Dan earned a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Michigan State University’s Eli Broad College of Business. He holds the General Securities Representative License (Series 7), Uniform Combined State Law License (Series 66), Resident Producer: Accident and Health, Life Insurance and Variable Annuities Licenses, and a National Mortgage License.
Dan has been named to Morgan Stanley’s prestigious Pacesetter’s Club from 2021 to 2023 and has also earned multiple industry recognitions, including Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Team (2025–2026), Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisor (2026), and Top Next-Gen Best-in-State Wealth Advisor (2024–2025). He is also a five-time Five Star Wealth Manager award recipient (2021-2025). Dan and his wife, Sofia, currently reside in Birmingham, Michigan. In his free time, Dan enjoys golf, hockey, giving back to the community, and spending time in Northern Michigan.
2025, 2026 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams Source: Forbes (Awarded Jan 2025, 2026) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period 3/31/23-3/31/25.
2026 Forbes America’s Top Wealth Advisors and Best-In-State Wealth Advisors Source: Forbes.com (Awarded April 2026) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC for the period 6/30/24-6/30/25.
2024-2025 Forbes Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors & Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Best-In-State Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Aug 2024, 2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 3/31/22–3/31/24.
2021-2025 Five Star Wealth Manager Award
Source: fivestarprofessional.com (Awarded 2021-2023) These awards were determined through an evaluation process conducted by Five Star Professional, based on objective criteria, during the following periods:
2021 Award - 08/10/20 - 03/19/21
2022 Award - 09/03/21 - 03/11/22
2023 Award - 09/05/22 - 03/03/23
2024 Award - 9/05/23 - 2/29/24
2025 Award - 08/21/24 - 2/28/25
Securities Agent: FL, VA, MD, WY, IN, OK, MA, CO, TN, NJ, DE, OH, MN, GA, DC, SC, NY, NC, CT, TX, ME, CA, WI, WA, PA, NV, MO, IL, AZ, UT, MI; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1692172
NMLS#: 1692172
About Scott M Strickland
Scott began his career in Wealth Management in 2005 after graduating from the Richard T. Farmer School of Business at Miami University in Oxford, OH with a B.S. in Finance. After serving multiple roles at UBS Wealth Management in New York and Chicago, Scott returned to Birmingham to join Morgan Stanley in April, 2008. He earned the Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®) designation through the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania and the Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®) designation through the Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago. In addition, Scott also holds the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®), Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst® (CAIA®) and Chartered Retirement Plan Specialist℠ (CRPS®) designations.
Scott is a member of the Investments & Wealth Institute (formerly IMCA) and was recognized as a Best-in-State Next Gen Wealth Advisor by Forbes in their 2019 ranking and in 2023 as a Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisor for Michigan. Lastly, in 2023 Scott was nominated to participate in the Morgan Stanley Family Wealth Director (FWD) designation program, placing him in a select group of 5% of all Financial Advisors at the firm. This designation is only given to those with extensive experience working with ultra-high net worth families, and who have undergone specialized training which allows him to have direct access to an extensive range of resources needed to help affluent families handle the complex, multigenerational challenges of managing significant wealth.
Scott is a past Governor of Cranbrook Schools and former President of the Cranbrook Kingswood Alumni Association. Scott co-founded and formerly served as Treasurer of the Born and Raised Detroit Foundation in addition to his service as a Trustee of Beaumont Hospital and Co-Chair of the Beaumont Hospital Drive to Beat Breast Cancer golf outing.
2023 - Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded April 2023) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 6/30/21 - 6/30/22.
2019 - Forbes Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded June 2019) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 3/31/18 - 3/31/19.
Scott is a member of the Investments & Wealth Institute (formerly IMCA) and was recognized as a Best-in-State Next Gen Wealth Advisor by Forbes in their 2019 ranking and in 2023 as a Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisor for Michigan. Lastly, in 2023 Scott was nominated to participate in the Morgan Stanley Family Wealth Director (FWD) designation program, placing him in a select group of 5% of all Financial Advisors at the firm. This designation is only given to those with extensive experience working with ultra-high net worth families, and who have undergone specialized training which allows him to have direct access to an extensive range of resources needed to help affluent families handle the complex, multigenerational challenges of managing significant wealth.
Scott is a past Governor of Cranbrook Schools and former President of the Cranbrook Kingswood Alumni Association. Scott co-founded and formerly served as Treasurer of the Born and Raised Detroit Foundation in addition to his service as a Trustee of Beaumont Hospital and Co-Chair of the Beaumont Hospital Drive to Beat Breast Cancer golf outing.
2023 - Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded April 2023) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 6/30/21 - 6/30/22.
2019 - Forbes Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded June 2019) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 3/31/18 - 3/31/19.
Securities Agent: MA, ME, DE, WA, OH, NJ, NH, MT, OK, CO, AZ, TX, PA, IL, CA, WI, VA, UT, IN, TN, WY, SC, MI, GA, NY, NC, FL, MN, OR, NV, MO, MD; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1278902
NMLS#: 1278902
About David DiFiore
David provides comprehensive investment management and wealth planning strategies for high-net-worth clients. He does this through an extremely high touch, service-oriented approach, to help ensure his clients can achieve their financial goals.
David has been advising clients since 2016. Before joining the M-1 Group, David was a Private Banker at J.P. Morgan serving high-net-worth individuals, families, endowments and foundations. He earned a B.S.B.A in Finance from Xavier University and is a CFA Charter holder. He holds the Series 7, 63, and 65 securities licenses, as well as State Health and Life Insurance licenses.
David has been named to the Firm’s Pacesetter’s Club, a global recognition program for Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors who have demonstrated the highest professional standards and first class client service. He is an active member in his community where he serves on the Junior Board of Advisors for Xavier University’s Finance Department. David is a member of the Detroit Athletic Club spending most of his time being active in the athletic department, the wine club, and the car club. He also enjoys golfing, traveling, trying out new restaurants, and most importantly, spending time with his family and friends.
NMLS# 2467815
David has been advising clients since 2016. Before joining the M-1 Group, David was a Private Banker at J.P. Morgan serving high-net-worth individuals, families, endowments and foundations. He earned a B.S.B.A in Finance from Xavier University and is a CFA Charter holder. He holds the Series 7, 63, and 65 securities licenses, as well as State Health and Life Insurance licenses.
David has been named to the Firm’s Pacesetter’s Club, a global recognition program for Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors who have demonstrated the highest professional standards and first class client service. He is an active member in his community where he serves on the Junior Board of Advisors for Xavier University’s Finance Department. David is a member of the Detroit Athletic Club spending most of his time being active in the athletic department, the wine club, and the car club. He also enjoys golfing, traveling, trying out new restaurants, and most importantly, spending time with his family and friends.
NMLS# 2467815
Securities Agent: KY, GA, WI, TX, OH, IN, CA, SC, UT, OK, RI, WA, VA, MS, IA, DC, AL, VT, WY, PR, NH, LA, KS, ID, NJ, NE, MO, HI, WV, NM, VI, DE, AR, AK, ND, SD, OR, NV, CT, TN, ME, FL, NY, MT, PA, NC, MI, MA, CO, AZ, MN, MD, IL; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 2467815
NMLS#: 2467815
About Mary E. Fugelsang
Mary was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan and attended Macomb Community College before deciding on a career in the Financial Services industry. She was drawn to the field out of a passion for relationship building through strong communication, problem solving and the excitement of ever-changing markets.
She has been an integral part of The M-1 Group for 20 years and has a total of 29 years of experience in the Financial Services field. Her commitment to The M-1 Group, and to its clients, is to provide exceptional service and integrity in all areas of her role. Mary is responsible for all aspects of client administration and team collaboration. She helps clients optimize the firm’s broad platform and is willing and able to go the extra mile to ensure that The M-1 Group clients receive a first-class experience.
Mary is recognized for her contributions to the firm when she was nominated, and accepted to, the Morgan Stanley National Service Council in 2018. She has earned the Cash Engagement Specialist* designation with Morgan Stanley.
Mary currently resides in Sterling Heights with her two daughters and dogs. In her spare time, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, exercise, pickleball, reading and traveling. She supports many community programs and animal welfare causes.
*This role cannot solicit or provide investment advice.
She has been an integral part of The M-1 Group for 20 years and has a total of 29 years of experience in the Financial Services field. Her commitment to The M-1 Group, and to its clients, is to provide exceptional service and integrity in all areas of her role. Mary is responsible for all aspects of client administration and team collaboration. She helps clients optimize the firm’s broad platform and is willing and able to go the extra mile to ensure that The M-1 Group clients receive a first-class experience.
Mary is recognized for her contributions to the firm when she was nominated, and accepted to, the Morgan Stanley National Service Council in 2018. She has earned the Cash Engagement Specialist* designation with Morgan Stanley.
Mary currently resides in Sterling Heights with her two daughters and dogs. In her spare time, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, exercise, pickleball, reading and traveling. She supports many community programs and animal welfare causes.
*This role cannot solicit or provide investment advice.
About Michelle L. Lively
Michelle Lively
Wealth Management Analyst
The M-1 Group at Morgan Stanley
Michelle has been helping clients work toward their objectives since 1991. Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, she started her career in the industry in multiple operational areas at the Raymond James home office in St. Petersburg and then was promoted to Branch Manager Assistant and Operations Manager in Ft. Lauderdale. Michelle attended Oakland Community College and holds the Series 7, 63, and 65 Securities licenses. She was nominated by management to take on the role of Service Professional Coach for the complex’s new hires and in 2021 was promoted to the role of Wealth Management Analyst.
Michelle has been with the M-1 Group for over six years and has a total of thirty years of experience in the industry. She is responsible for helping the team analyze each client’s unique situation in order to build a wealth plan for pursuing their goals.
Michelle and her husband Jim currently reside in Lake Orion where they raised their two adult boys Austin & Jason after moving back from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Michelle and Jim are avid sports fans and love spending time with the family watching and going to live sporting events in the Metro Detroit area. Michelle has been the fundraising coordinator for the Grand Valley men’s club soccer team and volunteered as the manager for the Lake Orion High School boys’ soccer program.
Wealth Management Analyst
The M-1 Group at Morgan Stanley
Michelle has been helping clients work toward their objectives since 1991. Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, she started her career in the industry in multiple operational areas at the Raymond James home office in St. Petersburg and then was promoted to Branch Manager Assistant and Operations Manager in Ft. Lauderdale. Michelle attended Oakland Community College and holds the Series 7, 63, and 65 Securities licenses. She was nominated by management to take on the role of Service Professional Coach for the complex’s new hires and in 2021 was promoted to the role of Wealth Management Analyst.
Michelle has been with the M-1 Group for over six years and has a total of thirty years of experience in the industry. She is responsible for helping the team analyze each client’s unique situation in order to build a wealth plan for pursuing their goals.
Michelle and her husband Jim currently reside in Lake Orion where they raised their two adult boys Austin & Jason after moving back from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Michelle and Jim are avid sports fans and love spending time with the family watching and going to live sporting events in the Metro Detroit area. Michelle has been the fundraising coordinator for the Grand Valley men’s club soccer team and volunteered as the manager for the Lake Orion High School boys’ soccer program.
About Nick Bonema
Nick joins the M-1 Group as a native of Metro Detroit with prior experience at Morgan Stanley. As an alumnus of UofD Jesuit High School, Nick graduated from UNLV with a Bachelor's of Science, along with spending a year at Loyola University of Chicago on the golf team. Nick holds the Series 7 and Series 66 licenses, as well as the MI Life, Accident, and Health Insurance license and Variable and Annuity License.
Having played golf his whole life, Nick tries to fill most of his free time on the golf course. He has a strong passion for golf course architecture, music, enjoys trying new restaurants and loves to travel.
Having played golf his whole life, Nick tries to fill most of his free time on the golf course. He has a strong passion for golf course architecture, music, enjoys trying new restaurants and loves to travel.
Contact Sean P Moran
Contact Jeffrey Hoppie
Contact Daniel J. Sakalian
Contact Scott M Strickland
Contact David DiFiore
Awards and Recognition
Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
2025-2026 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2025-2026). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award.
Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors
2023-2025 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2023-2025). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.
2
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
Kristopher Johnson
Private Banker
About Kristopher Johnson
Kristopher Johnson is a Private Banker serving Morgan Stanley Wealth Management offices in Michigan and Ohio.
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.
Kristopher began his career in financial services in 2008 and joined Morgan Stanley in 2017. Prior to joining the firm, he was a Wealth Management Banking Advisor at Bank of America Merrill Lynch. He also served as a Wealth Management Lending Officer and Sales Trainer at Bank of America Merrill Lynch.
Kristopher is a graduate of the University of Michigan, where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, and Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business, where he received his Masters of Business Administration in Finance. He lives in Rochester, Michigan with his wife. Outside of the office, Kristopher enjoys exercising, watching sports, volunteering with local organizations, and spending time with family and friends.
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.
Kristopher began his career in financial services in 2008 and joined Morgan Stanley in 2017. Prior to joining the firm, he was a Wealth Management Banking Advisor at Bank of America Merrill Lynch. He also served as a Wealth Management Lending Officer and Sales Trainer at Bank of America Merrill Lynch.
Kristopher is a graduate of the University of Michigan, where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, and Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business, where he received his Masters of Business Administration in Finance. He lives in Rochester, Michigan with his wife. Outside of the office, Kristopher enjoys exercising, watching sports, volunteering with local organizations, and spending time with family and friends.
NMLS#: 630462
Private Banking Group (PBG) Market Managers, Senior Private Bankers, Private Bankers, and Associate Private Bankers are employees of Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association.
Banking products and services are offered by Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association, Member FDIC.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is a registered Broker/Dealer, Member SIPC, and not a bank. Where appropriate, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC has entered into arrangements with banks and other third parties to assist in offering certain banking related products and services.
Investment, insurance and annuity products offered through Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC are: NOT FDIC INSURED | MAY LOSE VALUE | NOT BANK GUARANTEED | NOT A BANK DEPOSIT | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY
Banking products and services are offered by Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association, Member FDIC.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is a registered Broker/Dealer, Member SIPC, and not a bank. Where appropriate, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC has entered into arrangements with banks and other third parties to assist in offering certain banking related products and services.
Investment, insurance and annuity products offered through Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC are: NOT FDIC INSURED | MAY LOSE VALUE | NOT BANK GUARANTEED | NOT A BANK DEPOSIT | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY
Wealth Management
Global Investment Office
Portfolio Insights
This is a video content
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
A Simple Six-Step Retirement Checkup
Article Image
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
Iran Conflict: Seven Takeaways for Investors
Article Image
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
529 Plans: A Powerful Tool to Save for Education
Article Image
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
Article Image
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
Wealth Management for Athletes and Entertainers
Understanding the unique financial challenges of athletes and entertainers and how they differ from one profession to the next, we deliver the experience and resources you need to help create and implement a comprehensive, multigenerational wealth management plan based on your needs, values and aspirations.
- Investment Management
- Wealth Transfer & Philanthropy
- Private Banking Solutions
- Family Governance & Wealth Education
- Lifestyle Advisory
Retirement for Plan Sponsors
End-to-End Services, Made Simple:
We can provide the tools and guidance to help you manage a retirement plan.
We can provide the tools and guidance to help you manage a retirement plan.
- Plan Evaluation
- Investment Management
- Plan Management Support
- Plan Participant Education
Small Business Retirement Plans
Article Image
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 M-1 Group today.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization’s initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.
1Morgan 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.
For more information, please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC Client Relationship Summary.
2Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is the trade name of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, a registered broker-dealer in the United States. Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is a business of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC.
3When 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.
4When 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.
5Morgan 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.
6Morgan 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.
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 Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization's initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.
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 | Morgan Stanley
1Morgan 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.
For more information, please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC Client Relationship Summary.
2Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is the trade name of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, a registered broker-dealer in the United States. Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is a business of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC.
3When 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.
4When 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.
5Morgan 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.
6Morgan 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.
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 Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization's initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.
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 | Morgan Stanley
CRC 4665150 (8/2025), 4763067 (9/2025)
