Meet BE Partner, Jeff Barbour

Jeff started his career at BE in 2003 as a tax associate in the Roanoke office. He is currently the firm's tax coordinator. With over 20 years of accounting and tax experience, he works with individuals and entities, covering a variety of industries, on tax compliance and consulting.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration and accounting from Averett University and received his master's in accounting with a tax specialization from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He is also a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), and the Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants (VSCPA). He also serves as the treasurer for Saint Francis Service Dogs and is a member of the Roanoke Valley Estate Planning Council and the Southwest Virginia Business Development Association.

We interviewed Jeff to get to know him outside of his profession, and we were surprised to learn that he plays both the piano and the organ, although he doesn't claim to be a professional at either one.

Where are you from and where did you grow up?

I grew up in Chatham, VA, which is a one-stoplight town near Danville.

What are some of your hobbies?

I spend most of my free time with my wife, Roberta, and my two boys, Alex and Adam. We enjoy being outside—whether it be going for a hike or working in the yard or garden. We also spend time on the soccer field!

What's the next place on your travel bucket list and what will you do there??

I would love to be able to take my family to Europe to see historical sites. I was also a history minor in college.

If you starred in your own hero action movie, what would be your superhero name and superpower?

Tough one. Probably a character like the Flash so I could get things done at lightning speed!

What's the last book you read or what is your favorite book/series you ever read and why?

The Chronicles of Narnia is one of my favorite books—great message in the book and also is exciting enough to keep your attention!

What is one food you can’t live without and why??

Mexican food! Just love it anytime!

If you knew you were going to be stranded on a deserted island, what three things would you bring with you?

A good tent, a lighter, and a good knife. That’s the practical accountant in me!

Why did you choose a career in public accounting?

I became interested in accounting after taking a class in high school. It seemed to click, so I decided to pursue the major in college. I enjoy the interaction with clients—being their trusted advisor and having clients appreciate what we do makes it worthwhile. I also like the variety and challenges of public accounting—I definitely learn something new every day!