Discover ESAO’s International Alumni Network: Success Stories in the Olive Oil Sector

At ESAO, the Olive Oil School of Spain, we have trained over 900 olive oil industry professionals from more than 25 countries around the world. Each of our alumni carries with them the deep knowledge and skills acquired at our institution, applying them to elevate industry standards in their respective regions. Our alumni network is not only growing in numbers but also in influence, with professionals who are leading innovative projects, transforming traditional practices, and embracing more sustainable approaches in the production and commercialization of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO).

These professionals act as global ambassadors for EVOO, promoting both the quality of olive oil and its cultural and gastronomic value, opening markets, and educating consumers and producers about the benefits of this product. At ESAO, we don’t just train technical experts; we also cultivate leaders who inspire others to improve their practices and contribute to the sustainable growth of the sector.

On this page, we invite you to learn more about their success stories, explore the diversity of profiles that make up our alumni network, and discover how ESAO continues to establish itself as the international benchmark in professional training for the olive oil sector, staying at the forefront of the industry’s ever-evolving challenges and changes.

ESAO Alumni Success Stories

Our alumni are making an impact on the olive oil sector in various parts of the world. Here are some success stories that showcase the ability of ESAO-trained professionals to lead innovation in the industry.

• S.B. (Samuel Bernhart, Portugal): Samuel has implemented advanced olive grove management techniques at Olival da Risca, improving the quality of his extra virgin olive oil and expanding his business to international markets.
• A.H. (Anna Hansen, Australia): A pioneer in developing a sustainable olive oil brand, Anna has focused on regenerative farming practices that not only improve product quality but also reduce environmental impact.
• J.M. (Javier Martínez, España): Javier has worked as a consultant for large producers in Spain, helping them optimize crop productivity and improve efficiency in olive oil extraction.
  
  

 Why ESAO is the International Benchmark in Olive Oil Education

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Since its founding, ESAO has established itself as the leading institution in olive oil education, standing out not only for the quality of its teaching but also for its holistic approach in training experts capable of facing the current challenges of the olive oil sector. With over a decade of experience, we have developed a unique educational model that combines academic rigor with a strong practical orientation. This methodology enables our students not only to learn the technical principles behind the production and commercialization of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) but also to apply that knowledge in real-world contexts, ensuring they are prepared to excel in an ever-evolving and highly competitive market.

Our courses cater to the needs of both new entrepreneurs and experienced professionals seeking to refine their skills. From olive grove management and quality control in oil production to international marketing and distribution, ESAO offers a broad array of training programs that cover all key areas of the industry. What truly sets us apart is the deep practical immersion we provide. Our students not only learn in classrooms or seminars but also visit olive groves, mills, and laboratories, where they can observe firsthand how the industry’s best practices are implemented.

Additionally, one of the pillars of our success is the international network of contacts that ESAO students can build during their training. This network includes not only their classmates but also experienced professionals, industry experts, and thought leaders who are part of the ESAO faculty. This global connection offers an unparalleled platform for idea exchange, professional networking, and business opportunity creation. Many of our alumni have collaborated to develop international projects, access new markets, and share knowledge in a global community that transcends borders.

Finally, at ESAO, we understand that constant innovation and updating are key to staying at the forefront of such a dynamic sector as olive oil. That’s why our courses are continually updated, incorporating the latest trends, technologies, and sustainable practices. Our students are trained not only to succeed today but to anticipate the challenges and opportunities of the future. This combination of high-quality theoretical training, immersive practical experiences, and an active international network makes us the top choice for those who want to stand out and make a difference in the competitive world of olive oil.

Meet Our Alumni Around the World

Our ESAO alumni community is a diverse, global network of professionals who have transformed the olive oil sector in their respective countries. These alumni play a crucial role in various areas of the olive oil industry, from specialized consulting and Extra Virgin Olive Oil production to launching their own brands. This network has grown steadily, uniting small and large-scale producers, distributors, researchers, and entrepreneurs who, with their knowledge and passion for olive oil, are impacting the global EVOO market.

Our alumni are spread across all regions of the world, adding value from North America, where the high-quality olive oil market continues to expand, to Europe, the birthplace of olive cultivation, and emerging markets such as Asia and Oceania, where interest in olive oil is growing rapidly in terms of both consumption and production. In each of these places, ESAO alumni are leading innovative initiatives, from implementing sustainable agricultural techniques to creating disruptive business models that are changing the way olive oil is marketed and perceived worldwide.

The variety of profiles in this network reflects the broad approach of our training. Among our alumni, you will find consultants who advise large producers on optimizing their operations, producers who manage both traditional and modern olive groves, and entrepreneurs who have launched exclusive Extra Virgin Olive Oil brands, positioning themselves in high-end markets. This range of roles enables our community not only to improve olive oil production but also to influence the entire value chain, from the field to the consumer.

• Consultants: Our alumni consultants work closely with farmers and producers worldwide, helping them apply best agricultural practices and improve production efficiency. Thanks to their training at ESAO, they have acquired a global view of the sector, allowing them to implement solutions that not only optimize olive oil quality but also ensure long-term sustainability and competitiveness.
• Producers: Many of our alumni manage high-quality olive groves, where they apply advanced cultivation and harvesting techniques, allowing them to produce internationally awarded oils. These producers benefit not only from the technical knowledge gained at ESAO but also from the global network that enables them to share their successes and learn from others in the alumni community.
• Entrepreneurs: Some alumni have launched their own extra virgin olive oil brands, bringing high-quality EVOO to luxury markets around the world. These entrepreneurs have leveraged ESAO’s networking opportunities and commercial training to create innovative products that stand out for their quality, unique packaging, and focus on sustainability.

In this section, we invite you to explore our alumni profiles, organized by region and country, to discover how they are adding value in different parts of the world. From the olive groves of Spain and Italy, through the mills of Greece and Portugal, to the new projects emerging in Australia, the United States, and Japan, each of our alumni is making a mark and contributing to elevating the standards of the global olive oil industry.

This showcases the diversity of roles our ESAO alumni play and their impact in different regions worldwide, as well as highlighting how various profiles, from consultants to entrepreneurs, are contributing to sector development.

• North America:  Highlighted alumni in the USA and Canada.
• Europe: Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, etc.
• Asia and Oceania: Japan, Australia, New Zealand.

Innovative Projects and Consulting by ESAO Alumni

Our alumni stand out not only for their deep technical knowledge in olive oil production but also for their ability to develop and lead innovative projects that are transforming the olive oil sector in terms of sustainability, quality, and efficiency. The training they receive at ESAO provides them with a solid foundation, not only in the agronomic and technical aspects of olive cultivation but also in the strategic vision needed to identify and pursue new opportunities in an ever-evolving market.

Over the years, our alumni have successfully applied what they’ve learned to improve production practices, increase olive grove management efficiency, and create high-end products that stand out in international markets. This has allowed many of them to become leaders in the sector, transforming their businesses and those of their clients with a focus on innovation and sustainability. The ability of our alumni to drive change is evident not only in their own projects but also in their influence on the communities and regions where they operate, helping to raise industry standards globally.

Successful Consultancies:

Several of our alumni have developed successful careers as consultants, applying the knowledge acquired at ESAO to transform production practices in both large and small olive oil operations. These alumni not only provide advice on the technical aspects of crop management but also guide producers in adopting advanced agricultural techniques, from efficient water and nutrient management to the implementation of precision technologies that allow resources to be optimized in real-time.

For example, some alumni have introduced smart irrigation systems that reduce water consumption without sacrificing crop quality, an innovation that has been essential in areas where climate change has severely impacted water resources. Others have implemented regenerative farming practices that not only improve soil health but also contribute to carbon capture, helping to mitigate the environmental impact of agricultural production.

• Featured Case: J.M. (Javier Martínez, Spain), one of our most renowned alumni, has worked as a consultant for some of the largest olive oil operations in Spain, helping to implement precision farming techniques and efficient irrigation management, which has allowed his clients to increase both the quality of their oil and the profitability of their operations. Javier has enabled the operations he works with to become models of efficiency and sustainability, demonstrating that it is possible to produce high-quality extra virgin olive oil in an environmentally responsible way.

New Brands:

The entrepreneurial spirit of many of our alumni has led them to launch some of the most promising Extra Virgin Olive Oil brands in the international market. These brands are characterized by a strong focus on quality and sustainability, standing out in high-end markets for their commitment to excellence at every stage of production, from cultivation to commercialization.

Entrepreneurs trained at ESAO understand that, to compete in the most demanding markets, it is crucial not only to produce a superior quality olive oil but also to develop a solid brand strategy that effectively communicates the company’s values and the unique characteristics of their product. In many cases, our alumni have opted for organic and regenerative practices, which have allowed them not only to position their products in the premium segment but also to gain recognition for their commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

• Featured Case: A.H. (Anna Hansen, Australia), has launched an organic olive oil brand that has captured the attention of international markets. Using regenerative practices she learned during her training at ESAO, Anna has created a product that stands out not only for its flavor and quality but also for meeting the demands of sustainability-conscious consumers. Her innovative approach to packaging and marketing, along with her ability to convey the added value of her oil, has positioned her as one of the most promising brands in the luxury market.
  
  

In addition to creating new brands, many alumni have brought their products to international markets, leveraging their knowledge in global export and distribution. This has allowed the high-quality extra virgin olive oil produced by our alumni to reach consumers worldwide, increasing EVOO’s visibility and educating new audiences on its benefits and characteristics.

We aim to highlight the key role of ESAO alumni as change agents in the olive oil industry, showcasing their ability to lead innovative projects, advise large producers, and create premium brands distinguished by their quality and sustainability.

How to Become Part of the ESAO Alumni Network

Being part of the ESAO alumni network means not only successfully completing high-quality training but also gaining access to a global community of professionals who share your passion for extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and excellence. Upon completing any of our courses, students automatically become members of this prestigious network, opening the door to numerous benefits and opportunities beyond the classroom.

Being part of ESAO’s alumni network is a strategic advantage for professionals in the olive oil sector, as it allows them to stay connected with experts worldwide, broadening their horizons both personally and professionally. Our network is designed not only to support alumni in the early stages of their careers but also to provide continuous support, offering tools and opportunities that help them grow and adapt to new challenges and trends in the olive oil market.

Benefits of the ESAO Alumni Network

1. International Networking Opportunities: The ESAO alumni network is global and diverse, meaning that by being part of it, you gain access to a wide range of olive oil sector professionals in various roles and geographies. From EVOO producers and technical consultants to entrepreneurs and distributors, each network member brings a unique perspective that can enrich others’ experience and knowledge.
   
   These connections not only foster the exchange of ideas and experiences but can also lead to international collaborations on projects, joint ventures, or specialized consultancies. The ability to interact with other olive oil experts internationally enables our alumni to broaden their professional opportunities and gain a more comprehensive view of the sector in different markets.
   
   
2. Continuous Training: ESAO understands that the olive oil sector is constantly evolving, with new technologies, production techniques, and consumer demands emerging each year. For this reason, one of the key benefits for our alumni is access to continuous training. Our alumni can return to ESAO to refine their knowledge, enrolling in specialized or advanced courses with exclusive discounts for alumni. This additional training allows them to stay at the forefront of innovations in the olive oil sector, maintaining their competitiveness in the market.
   
   
3. Discounts on Future Courses: Once you have completed a course at ESAO, you automatically gain access to special discounts on all future training programs. This includes advanced courses, workshops, and specific programs that can help you refine areas of interest such as olive grove management, sustainable production, or EVOO marketing in international markets. These discounts encourage our alumni to keep investing in their professional growth throughout their careers.
   
   
4. Collaborations on International Projects: The ESAO alumni network also offers the opportunity to collaborate on major international projects. Many of our alumni have successfully established strategic alliances with other alumni or sector companies to develop consultancy projects, launch new brands, or expand their presence in international markets. The network’s geographic diversity, with alumni in more than 25 countries, facilitates these collaborations anywhere in the world, providing new perspectives and innovative solutions.
   
   These collaborations allow alumni not only to share resources and knowledge but also to expand their business globally, opening doors to emerging markets and new growth opportunities. ESAO fosters these alliances by offering the perfect environment for alumni to connect and work together on projects with the potential to transform the olive oil sector in different parts of the world.
   
   
5. Support in Early Career Stages: Once students successfully complete their training at ESAO, they are not alone in their first steps as professionals in the sector. The alumni network provides continuous support, helping them establish themselves and find the best opportunities within the olive oil world. From professional advice to the possibility of connecting with more experienced alumni, ESAO ensures that its alumni have the tools they need to grow and advance in their professional careers.
   
   Upon passing ESAO courses, students automatically become part of this elite network, which means that from the moment they complete their training, they can begin to benefit from all these advantages, accelerating their development and maximizing the opportunities that arise. Access to an international network of contacts from the start of their professional careers is a competitive advantage that sets ESAO alumni apart from other sector professionals.

In this way, we emphasize the long-term benefits of being part of the ESAO alumni network, highlighting how this community offers continuous support, networking opportunities, additional training, and the possibility of collaborating on international projects. By completing a course, students already become part of this network, which offers them advantages from day one.