#USA #Chicago #CrossCountry Mortgage #Dan Gjeldum #John Noldan

CrossCountry Mortgage's Strategic Growth in Chicago

In an impressive move to consolidate its market presence in Chicago, CrossCountry Mortgage (CCM), the top retail mortgage lender in the nation for three consecutive years, has welcomed two distinguished industry leaders, Dan Gjeldum and John Noldan, as Executive Vice Presidents of Mortgage Lending. This strategic expansion aims not only to strengthen CCM’s operations in Chicago but to leverage the wealth of experience held by these veterans to continue its trajectory of success.

Respected Veterans Join the Team

Dan Gjeldum brings nearly three decades of expertise to the team, having spent 29 years in the mortgage industry. John Noldan complements this with 25 years of experience, both being highly regarded for their exceptional production and commitment to client satisfaction in the field. Under their leadership, they have built and maintained high-performing businesses by prioritizing the needs of clients, referral partners, and their teams.

The Vision Behind the Expansion

As Ron Leonhardt, Founder and CEO of CrossCountry Mortgage, stated, "Dan and John have built high-producing businesses by putting clients, referral partners, and team members first." This philosophy resonates strongly with CCM's core values, creating an environment that nurtures high achievers who seek a company with a forward-looking vision, ample resources, and a supportive culture.

Gjeldum and Noldan’s decision to join CCM emphasizes their desire to be part of an organization dedicated to excellence. "At this point in my career, the opportunity to build something new is extremely appealing," remarked Gjeldum. He articulated a shared vision with CCM to continue growing operations while being supported by a talented team that invigorates their goals.

On the other hand, Noldan expressed enthusiasm about being aligned with a company ready to invest intently in future advancements. "The mortgage industry continues to evolve, and it's important to align with an organization that's investing in the future," he stated. This insight showcases the momentum CCM has developed—a dedication to fostering innovative approaches in a competitive market.

Strengthening Community Ties

The addition of Gjeldum, Noldan, and their teams not only reinforces CCM’s reputation but also enhances its status as a magnet for high-performing mortgage professionals. Both leaders will maintain their independent operations while collaborating with the robust national platform provided by CCM to expand their respective market presence and attract top talent. This strategic partnership consolidates a commitment to accelerate growth while preserving the trusted relationships that have been carefully cultivated throughout their careers.

CCM's Proven Track Record

CrossCountry Mortgage has positioned itself as a leader in the retail mortgage sector, evidenced by its impressive achievements. In 2025, the company served over 131,000 families, a testament to its expansive reach and capability to impact homeowners across the nation. The company, recognized for financing 1 in every 33 homes sold in the United States by volume in Q1 of 2026, continues to demonstrate its market dominance.

Operating through more than 9,000 employees in over 1,000 branches across all 50 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico, CCM offers a comprehensive range of mortgage solutions. From conventional and jumbo mortgages to specialized programs for veterans and rural homebuyers, the firm showcases its versatility in catering to diverse client needs.

Conclusion

As CrossCountry Mortgage looks forward to a promising chapter in its evolution within the Chicago market, the introduction of seasoned professionals such as Dan Gjeldum and John Noldan signifies a powerful commitment to excellence and client service. With a defined focus on growth, innovation, and supporting high-performing teams, CCM stands poised to navigate the future of the mortgage industry with confidence and vigor.