CrossCountry Mortgage (CCM) has recruited Dan Gjeldum and John Noldan from Rate, adding two longtime industry leaders as executive vice presidents of mortgage lending.
The hires strengthen CrossCountry's presence in the Chicago market, where both producers built high-volume businesses over decades. Gjeldum brings 29 years of mortgage industry experience, while Noldan has spent 25 years in the business.
The two leaders have merged operations but will continue running their businesses independently while maintaining the client and referral partner relationships they have built throughout their careers.
Both executives will continue originating loans while leveraging CCM's national platform to expand their market presence, recruit talent, and accelerate growth.
"Dan and John have built high-producing businesses by putting clients, referral partners, and team members first," said Ron Leonhardt, founder and CEO of CrossCountry Mortgage. "Top performers want a company with vision, resources, and a culture that empowers them to succeed. We're excited to welcome them to our team."
Gjeldum spent more than a decade at Chicago-based Rate after joining the company in 2011. Earlier in his career, he was recognized as one of the nation's top-producing mortgage originators.
"We wanted to be part of an organization that's completely focused on being the best mortgage company in the business," Gjeldum said. "At this point in my career, the opportunity to build something new, continue growing, and do it alongside an incredible team was extremely appealing. CCM provides the resources to make that happen."
Noldan said CrossCountry's focus on growth and innovation made the move attractive.
"The mortgage industry continues to evolve, and it's important to align with an organization that's investing in the future," Noldan said. "CrossCountry Mortgage stood out because of its commitment to growth, innovation, and supporting high-performing teams. We're excited to be part of that momentum."
The addition of Gjeldum, Noldan and their teams expands CrossCountry's footprint in one of the nation's largest mortgage markets and adds two experienced producers to the lender's growing retail platform.
