Masatoshi Kato, Kwansei Gakuin University

David Audretsch, Indiana University

Roy Thurik, Erasmus University Rotterdam

Maksim Belitski, University of Reading

Alex Coad, Waseda Business School

Eric Liguori, Florida State University

This special issue examines how firms of different sizes and stages organize themselves to achieve exceptional performance amid rapid technological change, globalization, and ecosystem interdependencies. The collection seeks theoretical and empirical research on novel organizational forms, structures, and governance models that enable firms to outperform competitors, innovate, and scale effectively. Particular emphasis is given to understanding organizational innovations in hidden champions, niche leaders, scaleups, and other exceptional performers.

The issue welcomes research investigating how novel organizational forms emerge and function across diverse geographical and economic contexts, including high-cost developed economies, emerging economies, and developing regions. Special attention is paid to underrepresented areas beyond OECD countries, recognizing that many Asian economies have cultivated distinctive organizational models through national initiatives. Research should address how factors like leadership, internal collaboration structures, technology adoption, ecosystem relationships, and policy environments shape organizational choices and performance outcomes.

Appel publié par Journal of Small Business Management. Voir l'appel sur le site de l'éditeur. Fiche de l'appel sur kerostig.

Potential topics

• Leadership and decision architecture
• Internal microstructures and governance
• Make-buy-ally organizational design
• Collaboration diversity and external partnerships
• Digitalization and AI in process organization
• Resilience and productivity through technology
• Ecosystem embedment and alliances
• Global value chain orchestration
• Government relationships and policy
• Cluster governance and institutions
• Business model innovation patterns
• Niche leaders and hidden champions
• Organizational forms across regions and industries
• Scaling and firm growth
• Innovation and productivity frontier

Timeline

• November 1, 2026: Manuscript submission opens
• January 31, 2027: Manuscript submission deadline

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Multinational enterprises (MNEs) face unprecedented challenges from exogenous shocks such as pandemics, natural disasters, geopolitical tensions, and supply chain disruptions. These major disruptions test the resilience and adaptability of global business operations and require strategic responses that span multiple countries and business units.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the vulnerabilities and opportunities within global value chains and MNE operations. Understanding how MNEs learn from and adapt to such major disruptions is critical for both theory and practice in international business.

This special issue seeks to advance our understanding of how MNEs respond to, learn from, and build resilience against exogenous shocks. We welcome empirical and theoretical contributions that examine MNE adaptation strategies, organizational changes, and the factors that influence their ability to navigate major disruptions.

Appel publié par Journal of World Business. Voir l'appel sur le site de l'éditeur. Fiche de l'appel sur kerostig.

Potential topics

• How have MNEs adapted their global value chains in response to exogenous shocks?
• What organizational and strategic changes have MNEs implemented to build resilience?
• How has the pandemic affected MNE subsidiary autonomy, mandates, and roles?
• What is the role of digital transformation in MNE adaptation to exogenous shocks?
• How do institutional contexts shape MNE responses to major disruptions?
• What are the short-term and long-term implications of exogenous shocks for MNE competitiveness?
• How have MNEs managed stakeholder relationships during major disruptions?
• What lessons can be learned from MNE responses to past crises?

Timeline

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