Background

Robert Yarber Jr., Council Pro Tempore of Sheffield Village. Robert Yarber Jr. is a dedicated public servant and experienced professional known for his commitment to community and civic leadership. He brings together a strong background in government service and business acumen, making him a well-rounded advocate for residents. Robert has spent years working to improve public services and ensure fiscal responsibility at both the local and state levels. His blend of hands-on public service experience and advanced business training gives him a unique perspective on effective governance and community development. With a passion for helping others and a results-driven approach, Robert Yarber Jr. stands out as a leader devoted to the well-being and prosperity of Sheffield Village and its residents.

Public Service

Robert’s public service journey in Sheffield Village began in 2019, when he joined the Sheffield Village Council. He currently serves as the Council President Pro Tempore, a role in which he acts as the council’s presiding officer in the Mayor’s absence and helps lead legislative initiatives. In addition, Robert is the council chair for the Finance & Insurance committee, overseeing budgetary and insurance matters for the village. In this capacity, he and the committee works with the Fiscal Officer to ensure that Sheffield Village’s finances are managed prudently and that the community’s assets are properly protected.

His council leadership has been marked by a servant leadership style and a focus on practical solutions, reflecting his dedication to transparent governance and responsive public service.

Professional Experience

Outside of his elected role, Robert Yarber Jr. serves as Vice President of Contracts & Supply Chain at Voyager Technologies, a global leader in National Security and Space Solutions. In this capacity, Robert leads the company’s supply chain and contracting strategies, overseeing everything from strategic planning and opportunity capture to contract execution and logistics. He is responsible for identifying new contracts and partnership opportunities aligned with Voyager’s growth objectives, managing proposal development, and ensuring operational readiness.

Robert also directs vendor negotiations, regulatory compliance, and the development of scalable supply chain systems that meet rigorous technical and quality standards. In addition to his corporate leadership role, he oversees several federal support service contracts and manages teams across multiple states. His leadership ensures high-performing operations that support critical mission objectives while maintaining consistent, compliant service delivery.

His work supports the execution of vital space missions while driving operational excellence and contributing to Voyager’s continued success in the civil space industry.

Education

Education has been a cornerstone of Robert Yarber Jr.’s personal and professional growth. Robert earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Western Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business, where he built a strong foundation in economics, budgeting, and corporate finance.

He holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Connecticut State University. While at Connecticut State University, he also became a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., a brotherhood rooted in Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplifting the community which continues to shape his approach to public life.

His academic achievements, combined with his deep commitment to service and civic engagement, provide Robert with the tools and perspective needed to tackle complex issues, deliver accountable governance, and help guide Sheffield Village toward a stronger future.

Personal

Robert Yarber Jr. has proudly called Sheffield Village home since 2007, where he lives with his wife, Tonya Yarber. Together, they have raised two daughters: Nia Yarber (24) and Nevaeh Yarber (22). Nevaeh is currently a senior at Ohio State University, following in her father’s footsteps by majoring in Finance.

In 2019, when Robert made the decision to join Sheffield Village Council, it was driven by a desire to use his corporate experience, education, and life perspective in service of the community. What began as a commitment to civic duty quickly evolved into a deeper calling—ensuring the voices of residents are heard and that Sheffield Village continues to grow responsibly and sustainably. Outside of his professional and public roles, Robert enjoys attending local events, spending time outdoors and whether he’s at a council meeting, mentoring future leaders or managing his family’s rental property, Robert is driven by a genuine desire to help people and make Sheffield Village the best place to live, work, and raise a family.