The influence of an export manager on export marketing policies : evidence from exporting olive oil companies in Crete

Cretan olive oil is known for its premium quality worldwide. In the post pandemic international environment, the rising demand for olive oil due to its health benefits has generated greater competition amongst traditionally non-producer and producer countries. Olive oil exports affect both the financial growth and stability of companies that trade it and the economic prosperity of the Crete prefecture. Various factors can influence a company's export performance, and of those it is widely agreed that the presence of an export manager yields a positive impact. The aim of this paper is to investigate the influence of an export manager on export marketing policies. The application of the Chi-Square Test (χ2) was judged as the most suitable criterion for the elaboration of the research. The χ2 test showed that there are statistically significant correlations between variables. The findings of the research indicate an exports manager's influence on promotions abroad and in conducting market research before exporting to a new foreign market. The employment of an export manager and the level of his/her certified knowledge appear to have a positive impact on the export marketing policies of companies that export Cretan olive oil.