Robert A. Nordland, Jr. is a veteran sales and product development executive with nearly 40 years of experience in the building materials industry. Known for his tenacity, integrity, and consultative approach, Robert has built a career centered on client satisfaction, solution-oriented leadership, and consistent performance in highly competitive markets. His unique ability to blend technical construction knowledge with strategic customer development has earned him top sales honors across multiple companies and a respected presence in the building materials community.
Beginning his career in the early 1990s as a Territory Manager at Pozzi Wood Windows, Robert quickly demonstrated his skill in growing market share and forging strong relationships with contractors and distributors. This early success led him to Marvin Windows & Doors, where he realized an overall sales growth of over 86% in just two years—evidence of his immediate and measurable impact on the bottom line.
Over the decades, Robert has continued to sharpen his ability to identify emerging opportunities, translate client needs into viable solutions, and position his companies as trusted resources in an evolving industry. From his work at Malta Windows, where he was named top salesman for new account sales in 1995, to his time with Cutting Edge Millwork and Midwest Window & Door, he has maintained a steady upward trajectory marked by growth, leadership, and an innate ability to close business while building trust.
A significant portion of Robert’s career was spent representing Marvin Windows through various distributors, including Evanston Lumber—Chicago’s largest Marvin dealer. His final year at Marvin Design Gallery (2023) saw him produce over $3 million in sales at a 26% gross profit margin, showcasing his ability to balance profitability with volume and scale in a highly competitive market. His success was not only measured in numbers but in the long-term client relationships and referrals he fostered.
Robert’s expertise spans across product development, blueprint reading, contractor sales, and business development. His background in construction engineering provides him with a solid foundation to speak fluently with architects, builders, and developers—making him a trusted liaison between technical teams and business stakeholders. He is highly proficient in the nuances of doors, windows, millwork, and green building products, with a particular talent for educating clients on the benefits and specifications of premium materials.
What truly sets Robert apart is his capacity to lead without ego. His approach to leadership is grounded in service—whether he’s coaching junior sales professionals, coordinating large contractor accounts, or consulting with manufacturers. His career has been marked by a calm and consistent presence, even amid industry fluctuations and market pressures. He attributes much of his success to a strong work ethic, loyalty to his clients, and an ability to adapt quickly without compromising on principles.
A graduate of Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering, Robert combines technical credibility with frontline sales expertise. His academic background laid the groundwork for his practical achievements, offering a rare blend of engineering knowledge and customer-facing sales success. He is also an alumnus of Glenbrook North High School and a proud member of the Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity, where he began cultivating the leadership values that have guided his professional journey.
Outside of work, Robert is passionate about golf, the outdoors, and travel. He believes in maintaining a healthy work-life balance and cherishes time with his family. His philanthropic interests include humanitarian causes such as Feed My Starving Children, where he co-chaired multiple meal packing events that collectively prepared over 2.5 million meals for children in need—underscoring his commitment to community and service.
Now serving as Sales Account Manager at The Woodshed Lumber Company, Robert is seeking to expand his impact by serving on a corporate or advisory board. With nearly four decades of hands-on experience, he is uniquely positioned to offer strategic insight, market perspective, and leadership in the building materials, construction, and contracting spaces. His goal is to share his knowledge, mentor the next generation of industry leaders, and contribute to organizations aligned with his values of integrity, growth, and long-term relationships.
Character:
Robert demonstrates integrity, consistency, and a customer-first mindset, making him a trusted partner to clients and colleagues alike. His commitment to doing things the right way has built lasting business relationships and earned industry respect.
Knowledge:
With deep industry experience and a formal education in construction engineering, Robert offers unmatched insight into building materials, contracting processes, and technical sales strategy. He continually applies his knowledge to improve product positioning and client outcomes.
Strategic:
Robert is a forward-thinking professional who can see the big picture without losing sight of operational details. He has a proven track record of identifying growth opportunities and aligning them with actionable, revenue-generating strategies.
Communication:
He is a skilled communicator who can translate complex technical specifications into value-based selling narratives. Whether presenting to contractors, executives, or manufacturers, Robert adapts his message with clarity and purpose.