From the Yard to the Office: Why Hiring Now Matters

Written By: Lyndsey Pokornowski

As we head into Q4, companies across lumber, tile and stone, windows and doors, cabinetry, and additional building products are wrapping up the year and gearing up for 2026. And one big question always comes up this time of year: do we have the right people on our team to hit our goals next year?

At BRIX Recruiting Partners, we talk daily with sales reps, plant managers, buyers, estimators, and executives in the building materials space. Whether it’s a family-owned lumberyard, a large distributor, a regional stone supplier, or a manufacturer serving residential and commercial projects, one thing is true everywhere: the right people make all the difference.

That’s why Q4 is such an important season for hiring.

Why Recruiting in Q4 Matters

This quarter is about more than closing out numbers — it’s about setting the table for January.

  • Budgets get finalized. New headcount and hiring plans are set now, not later.
  • Sales teams need coverage. Nobody wants to start January with empty territories or open regions.
  • Leadership transitions happen. From Plant Managers to VPs, many companies are preparing for succession.
  • Candidates reflect. Salespeople, managers, and executives look back on the year and ask themselves if they’re really in the right spot.

The companies that start recruiting now don’t just finish the year strong — they start the next one miles ahead.

What We’re Seeing in the Market

Outside Sales Is Still Hot

Across residential and commercial projects, companies are fighting for strong Territory Sales Reps. Contractors, builders, distributors, and architects still want reps they know and trust — and those personal relationships are what keep business flowing.

Operations Leadership in Demand

From lumberyards to manufacturers, companies are planning for retirements, expansion, and modernization. That means Plant Managers, Operations Managers, and VP-level leaders are in high demand.

Broader Product Knowledge Matters

Reps who can walk into a contractor’s office or architect’s firm and confidently discuss multiple categories — lumber, siding, decking, millwork, stone, or cabinetry — stand out. Versatility wins.

Retention Pressures Remain

Turnover isn’t slowing down. The top reasons we hear for leaving?

  • No clear path up the ladder.
  • Pay that hasn’t kept up with the market.
  • A culture that doesn’t fit.

For Employers: Don’t Wait

If you’re leading a team in building materials, now’s the time to take inventory.

  • Do you have the sales coverage to support distributors, contractors, and builders?
  • Is your operations team ready for growth and succession?
  • Where could you lose people if you don’t address career paths?

Waiting until January to start a search usually means you lose Q1. Recruiting takes time, and you want your new hire selling or leading on day one of the new year — not still in interviews.

Partnering with a recruiter who knows the building materials industry — who already knows the top sales reps, buyers, and managers in your market — can save you months.

For Candidates: Think Ahead

If you’re in sales, operations, or management, Q4 is the perfect time to ask yourself:

  • Am I building my book of business, or spinning my wheels with too much competition in my territory?
  • Am I in a company that’s investing in my growth, or am I stuck?
  • Am I being recognized for what I bring to the table?

The best opportunities for January often come from conversations that start in Q4.

How BRIX Recruiting Partners Fits In

We live and breathe building materials. Every day, we’re talking to professionals in lumber, stone, window/door, cabinetry, and beyond.

For employers, we bring you candidates with:

  • Proven track records in sales, operations, and management.
  • Strong relationships with contractors, distributors, builders, and A&D firms.
  • Leadership experience to step in now — or prepare for succession.
  • Product knowledge across multiple categories.

For candidates, we connect you with companies offering:

  • Growth into leadership roles.
  • ESOP programs and strong culture.
  • Pay and benefits that match the market.
  • A reputation you can be proud to represent.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The building materials world is shifting fast. Technology is advancing, consolidation is happening, and customers — from contractors to architects — are expecting more. The companies that will lead the way are the ones building strong, well-rounded teams now.

Whether you need a Territory Sales Rep to grow your contractor base, a VP of Operations to prepare for succession, or a Buyer with experience supporting both residential and commercial projects, the time to act is Q4 — not Q1.

Final Word

As we enter Q4, companies across lumber, stone, window/door, cabinetry, and other building products are making critical decisions. The right people in the right roles are what will set you apart.

At BRIX Recruiting Partners, our job is simple: connect the best people with the best companies in building materials.

If you’re looking to add talent or explore a new opportunity, now’s the time to start the conversation.