Class of 11 Michael Schwoll: Doing Business in Good Taste

Doing Business in Good Taste

Growing up in Germany, Michael Schwoll ’11 longed for international adventure. That’s what brought him to Indianola High School, where he graduated as an exchange student hosted by legendary Simpson professor Joe Walt. With Walt’s influence, Schwoll knew that staying here to attend Simpson would set him up to thrive anywhere on the planet.

“My international marketing courses at Simpson were a big steppingstone,” said Schwoll. “It sparked my interest to travel more, find work wherever it might be, and learn about businesses in all parts of the world. My study trip to China and the World Exposition in Shanghai is a memory I will never forget.”

That trip was a big part of the reason Schwoll moved to Hong Kong after graduating from Simpson. There he worked for a logistics and freight forwarding company while gaining industry proficiency with a certificate from the German Swiss International School.

His appetite for growing his business acumen brought him back to the U.S. and Grand Napa Vineyards in California, where he’s been for the last 10 years. As sales director, he oversees daily operations, production and warehousing at the company’s Napa Valley facilities.

“We conduct business all over Californa,” said Schwoll. “No days are the same and every challenge is unique. The winery is fully family owned and operated, so our operation is very dynamic and quick to adapt.”