Schwoomerangs: Returning to Schwab with Sam A.
By: Beau H., Content Manager
Sam A., a Director in Communications, started his career at Schwab shortly after our acquisition of TD Ameritrade. As a veteran in the communications space with experience working for financial firms, marketing & public relations agencies, and even universities, Sam has a unique understanding of different company cultures – and knows what key elements make them great.
After transitioning to a role outside of Schwab, Sam decided to come back. His journey mirrors many other “Shwoomerangs” – or employees who have returned to our team after leaving. Keep reading to learn about Sam’s professional trajectory, his thoughts on value of working in a supportive environment, and his advice for people who are considering joining our company.
Q: Tell us about your path to Schwab.
Sam: “Sure thing. I was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska. I went to the University of Iowa, where I earned a journalism degree in 2001. After graduation, I moved back to Omaha and worked in various jobs before landing an internship at Ameritrade in 2002. That marked the beginning of my journey in corporate communications.”
“Initially, Ameritrade's corporate communications team was small, with around four members, and we handled everything from PR to investor relations. Over the years, I moved through various roles within the company, then went to work for a marketing agency, came back to Ameritrade, transitioned to a role with Creighton University, and eventually ‘rejoined’ Schwab after the acquisition. My journey has been a series of returns to a place that always felt like home.”
Q: What do you like about working at Schwab, and how does our company align with your personal values?
Sam: “Great question. The easy answer is the people. I am very comfortable in this industry and have written countless vision statements, mission statements, and CEO communications. I've done it all, and I wouldn’t do it if I didn't believe in it. The values and character of Schwab truly shine through. When I returned a year ago, I knew I was coming back to a different company, not just Ameritrade. Conversations with Schwabbies convinced me that this was the place to be. It’s the people – my boss, colleagues, and team – who make working here great. You want to feel good about your work, believe in what you’re doing, and know that your stories and efforts are real and authentic. At Schwab, I’ve seen genuine care for employees, which matches up with my personal values and expectations for how a good company should behave.”
Q: Could you provide an example of a situation where you felt supported by your colleagues or empowered to learn and grow within Schwab?
Sam: “Absolutely. Every day at Schwab, I feel enabled to build a great career. Even when I left to pursue other opportunities, I never felt unsupported. When I returned to the unified Schwab, I had to adjust to some differences in the way things were done, but I felt encouraged to thrive by my boss and colleagues. To me, empowerment at Schwab means having autonomy and being supported in the belief that I can grow in this organization. Whether it's getting a better job, making more money, or being promoted, there's no question in my mind that Schwab supports these goals. It’s a big part of why I returned and why I stay.”
Q: Were there any other aspects of our company that influenced your decision to return?
Sam: “Our company’s positive direction and the integration process following the acquisition of Ameritrade were significant for me. Also, seeing the company through this transition has been exciting and has provided opportunities for me to create positive messaging. Working on the integration has been a fantastic experience, and despite any bumps along the way, I firmly believe Schwab is on a great path forward.”
Q: What advice would you give to individuals who are considering joining, or returning to, Schwab?
Sam: “Schwab is a big company with vast opportunities. My advice is to build a strong reputation within the company by forming partnerships and collaborating across different parts of the business. This not only makes the company feel smaller and more personal, but also opens up numerous opportunities for career growth. Engage with your colleagues, understand different business lines, and take advantage of the diverse opportunities that a large company like Schwab offers.”
Q: Is there anything else you’d like us to know or want to share?
Sam: “I never planned on being a ‘Schwoomerang,’ but it happened naturally. What drew me back each time to Ameritrade, and then to Schwab, were the people. If you trust your gut and feel good about the people you’ll be working with, that’s a strong indicator you’re in the right place. The support from good people around you can make any job, no matter how challenging, a fulfilling experience. If you’re at a company with people like that, you've found the right place to create a meaningful career.”
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