Schwinzer started his career in 1959 as an apprentice with Siemens in Berlin, studying to become a mechanical and optical master craftsman. A temporary transfer to Arriflex in New York resulted in Schwinzer remaining in the U.S. and spending a total of 43 years at ARRI in a variety of roles, starting as a technical representative for Arriflex cameras. Over the years he held management responsibilities for various product lines including new cameras, lighting products and tripods. He was promoted to vice-president, technical services and sales in 1986 and then vice president of the camera division in 1990 where his responsibilities included all technical, marketing and sales activities of that division, including the ARRI ALEXA camera system and the collaboration with Zeiss lenses.
Schwinzer is an associate member of the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) and serves on the Scientific and Technical Awards committee of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science. He has also been a member of SMPTE and other motion picture trade organizations.
“We are delighted and honored to welcome Juergen to the team,” said Les Zellan, chairman and owner, Cooke Optics, and president, ZGC. “He is well known and respected throughout the world for his incomparable technical knowledge and his passion for the film making world, and ZGC and Cooke will benefit greatly from his expertise and global contacts.”
