Learning from Chinese Multinationals – Case Studies of Knowledge Transfer PhD Student: Jelena Vukicevic (2nd year) Supervisors: - Dr. Shaowei He (University of Northampton) - Prof Richard Sanders (University of Northampton) - Prof Peter Lawrence (emeritus) - Dr. Grahame Fallon (Brunel University) School: Northampton Business School

Overview Multinationals from China are rapidly emerging as global players (Liu & Buck 2009) They are increasingly investing abroad into developed and developing countries (Parmentola 2011) However little is known about the knowledge they are bringing with them This project is about knowledge transfer from Chinese to UK companies

Background Chinese investment in Europe has been increasing since 2003 and is expected to continue Source: Financial Times 2012

Background Germany and the UK are the most significant destinations for Chinese capital Source: Financial Times 2012

Relevance Chinese companies are becoming more innovative (McKinsey Quarterly 2012) There could be learning opportunities for British firms But we know little about knowledge Chinese companies are bringing to the UK

Aim and objectives Aim: Improve understanding of knowledge being brought into the UK by Chinese multinationals Objectives: 1. Identify what (if any) knowledge is being transferred to UK businesses 2. Understand channels through which this is occurring 3. Examine effects on UK businesses 4. Assess implications for the UK economy

Existing research Knowledge transfer Joint ventures Strategic alliances Supply links Intl. acquisitions Emphasise knowledge transfer from developed country firms Do not consider knowledge transfer from developing country firms

Method The study uses multiple case studies of Chinese companies in the UK Qualitative data is collected through open-ended interviews with employees from both Chinese and British firms Managerial and non managerial employees are included Data will be analysed using thematic analysis and pattern-matching

Data collection So far 9 interviews have been conducted with: 5 Chinese companies (automotive, engineering, medical devices, oil and gas) 2 British companies (engineering) 1 govt. organisation 1 British engineering expert

Technological knowledge Preliminary findings Market knowledge Strategic knowledge Financial knowledge Cultural knowledge Technological knowledge

What next? Establish links with more Chinese companies Seek further links with British companies working with Chinese partners Conduct further interviews Analyse data to identify any new themes

Any questions?