Current Position and Responsibilities
Jim Durkin serves as Senior Vice President (SVP), Steep Slope Systems Sales at GAF, North America's largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer. In this leadership role, he is directly responsible for driving the sales growth of GAF’s residential roofing business, overseeing national residential sales strategy including National Accounts and regional sales in Canada. His portfolio encompasses key customer segments across the steep slope roofing market, emphasizing both market expansion and customer relationship management.
Career Tenure and Progression at GAF
Jim Durkin joined GAF in 2000 as a Regional Sales Manager. Over more than two decades, he has advanced through a variety of regional and national leadership roles spanning both residential and commercial roofing sales. Prior to assuming his current SVP position in February 2019, he led National Accounts and Canada sales, during which he spearheaded the development and implementation of GAF’s highly successful retail sales strategy.
Notably, under his leadership:
- GAF secured a strategic partnership with Lowe’s in 2015, broadening retail distribution channels.
- The company significantly expanded its relationship with The Home Depot, culminating in GAF being recognized as their Partner of the Year in 2018.
This history exemplifies his experience in cultivating major retail partnerships contributing to sustained revenue growth.
Industry Experience and Background
Jim brings over 30 years of roofing industry experience, including 8 years at GenFlex Roofing Systems, an Indiana-based commercial roofing products supplier, prior to his tenure at GAF. This combination of commercial and residential roofing expertise supports his comprehensive understanding of the marketplace from multiple angles.
Education and Continuous Development
- Bachelor of Science (BS) - Northern Illinois University
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) - St. Xavier University
Jim has supplemented his formal education with leadership, lean management, and organizational development training through various corporate and academic programs, including courses from the University of Notre Dame, Harvard Business School, and the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business.
Corporate and Community Engagement
Beyond his operational role, Jim is actively involved in governance and advisory functions:
- Member, Board of Trustees, La Salle University since 2017
- Chairman, Advisory Board - School of Business, La Salle University (2014–2017)
- Board Member and Chairman of the Membership Committee, Greater New England Minority Supplier Development Council, Inc.
His participation in these boards indicates a commitment to diversity, education, and leadership development beyond his immediate business responsibilities.
Company Context: GAF
GAF is the largest roofing manufacturer in North America, part of Standard Industries, the world’s largest roofing and waterproofing business. GAF covers more homes and businesses in the U.S. than any competitor and continues to invest heavily in innovation, sustainability, and community resilience. The company’s product and service portfolio includes residential shingles, leak barriers, roof underlayments, ventilation solutions, and commercial roofing systems.
Under Jim’s sales leadership, GAF has leveraged advanced digital sales platforms, such as GAF Project, enabling contractors to sell virtually or in-home via integrated sales functions—a clear nod to evolving market demands and technology adoption.
Market Position and Recognition
While specific individual awards for Jim Durkin are not highlighted, he publicly represents and endorses GAF’s recognition programs. For instance, the company’s President’s Club 3-Star distinction celebrates contractor excellence in quality and leadership each year, with Jim frequently communicating these achievements externally. His public presence underscores his role as a key figure in promoting company success stories and industry leadership.
Overall, Jim Durkin’s profile reflects a seasoned sales executive with deep industry insight, a strong record of strategic partnerships and retail expansion, and active roles in educational and supplier diversity organizations. His experience aligns with GAF’s position as an industry leader focused on growth, innovation, and sustainability in residential roofing.
