Debra Roberts Joins COMPASS as Director of Finance
COMPASS has appointed Debra Roberts as Director of Finance as the organization continues its growth and expansion of services.
“We are pleased to welcome Debra to our leadership team to regularly assist in the development and implementation of new procedures and features to enhance our financial workflow,” said Laura Lajewski, Executive Director.
In her role, Roberts will be responsible for leading and executing the financial and business operations of the organization. “I’m excited to be part of the COMPASS family,” said Roberts.
With more than 25 years of experience in the business sector, Roberts has worked in finance, accounting, and underwriting, including spending the last six years at National Telecommuting Institute managing the finance, accounting, and payroll team. A nonprofit organization, NTI helps Americans with disabilities find remote work opportunities. She spent the prior thirteen years at Tufts Health Plan, whose mission is to improve the health and wellness of the diverse communities they serve.
Helping others and serving her community is a priority for Roberts, who was the first Black person elected to the Stoughton Selectboard, serving as chair of the board. She serves as the First Vice President of the Massachusetts Municipal Association-Massachusetts Selectboard Association, and Vice Chair of the MBTA Advisory Board – Financial Operating Budget.
While Roberts specializes in money and finance, she never forgets the humanitarian side to what she does. “My goal is to help others achieve their purpose, and having a strong financial structure and effective practices in place is essential to being successful,” said Roberts. “Focusing on people and meeting their needs is a good starting point.”
Roberts has a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in finance from Northeastern University, a Graduate Certificate in Banking and Financial Services from Northeastern University, and a Bachelor of Science Degree from Fontbonne University.
She is a long-time resident of the Town of Stoughton, where she raised her three children who all attended and graduated from the Stoughton Public Schools. Roberts attends Messiah Baptist Church and is also a recognized leader in promoting diversity and inclusion. She is one of the founding members and Past Chair of the Stoughton Diversity & Inclusion Organization, organizes advocacy and special interest events in Stoughton, and speaks to organizations and in the community.