International Procurement Offices: Internal Service Providers in Procurement Organizations of Multinational Corporations

An increasing number of multinational corporations operate international procurement offices (IPOs) in foreign supply markets. These offices support their internal customers in global sourcing of components or finished goods. Based in locations near the suppliers’ sites, IPO staff perform different procurement functions ranging from market analysis over quality assurance to order processing. This book contains analytical concepts and practical examples of detailed aspects in organizing and managing an IPO. The author analyzes in particular the different functions of an IPO, its organizational structure, staffing, and mode of funding. The empirical study is based on comprehensive quantitative data and case study material about Asian IPOs of multinational companies in the electronics industry.