He went to sea at the age of 15, acquired solid practical experience as a seaman on ships under different flags.

In 1898, he accepted an offer from Hans Niels Andersen to join the East Asiatic Company.

He played a central role in expanding the company's fleet and the transition from steam vessels to modern ships.

He was also active as a board member in a number of associated companies, including Dampskibsselskabet Orient, soyakagefabrikken and Det Østasiatiske Industri- og Plantagekompagni.

[2] Schmiegelow shared his time between an apartment at Stavangergade 6 in Copenhagen and the summer residence Villa Skrænten on Sofievej in Vedbæk.