Senior Tax Manager, GBQ Partners
Not many people get excited about tax policy, but Rob Roll, BSBA ’13, MPPA ’14, is a proud exception.
An Ohio Northern University graduate, Rob has built an impressive career at the Columbus office of GBQ Partners, one of the top 100 accounting firms in the United States. Since joining the firm straight out of ONU, he has steadily climbed the ranks, now serving as senior tax manager.
In his leadership role, Rob helps high-net-worth individuals and families, as well as private equity and venture capital groups, navigate the ever-changing landscape of tax compliance. He also mentors and teaches younger associates.
His work requires more than just deep technical knowledge, it demands trust, empathy, and strong relationships. And that’s where Rob excels.
Whether helping a couple structure a charitable gift to maximize impact or guiding a family in transferring a business to the next generation, he sees his work as contributing to the greater good.
“I tell people I don’t do taxes for a living—I help people for a living, by doing taxes,” he explained.
In recognition of his exceptional professional accomplishments and service to others, Ohio Northern University is pleased to present Rob with the 2025 William L. Robinson Young Alumni Award during this year’s Homecoming & Reunion Weekend.
Rob came to ONU with a keen interest in public policy. He majored in finance, but took several elective courses in political science, one of which led to him meeting his future wife, Hannah (Shreffler) Roll, BA ’14.
An accounting class with Dr. Jill Christopher inspired Rob to add a second major in accounting.
“I found myself waking up early to do my accounting homework because I enjoyed it so much,” he laughed.
After receiving his undergraduate degree, Rob continued at ONU for his Master of Science in Accounting. He then embarked on his career at GBQ Partners as a staff accountant. Over the course of a decade, he steadily earned promotions, leading to his current role as tax senior manager, where he leads a team and continues to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
“It’s easy to wake up every day and go to work when you work with good people who are highly motivated and dedicated,” he said.
Rob’s innate curiosity about all things tax-related, and his genuine desire to assist people, are his motivators.
“I truly value my relationships with my clients,” he said. “Getting to know them and helping them through their various situations is the favorite part of my job.”
When he helps clients achieve their goals—whether its charitable giving or business growth, it can have a positive impact on the community and future generations.
“I like to think that my work makes a difference in that regard,” he said.
Rob describes his time at ONU as a formative experience. The small class sizes and personal attention he received from his professors fostered his curiosity and sharpened his critical thinking skills. He now mentors younger associates at his firm with the same support and encouragement that he experienced at ONU.
“Pouring into others, seeing them learn and grow, is incredibly rewarding,” he said.
He also gives back to his alma mater by serving on the alumni advisory board for the Dicke College of Business Administration.
“Northern made a fundamental difference in my life. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the education and opportunities I received at the University,” he said. “Because ONU is so special to me, being recognized by the University with the Young Alumni Award is just such an incredible honor.”