International Business Management

Course Description

The aim of this course is to address aspects related to the internationalisation of the modern firm and provide the students with a deeper understanding of its operation in the global marketplace. The basic principles of Management remain the same when a firm decides to go beyond its national boundaries, yet there is a need to be studied in the context of the new international markets. Foreign countries are different and, thus, the challenges that management face related to the internationalization of the firm are likely to be complex. When the firm expands in the international marketplace, it must adjust its internal resources and competencies and formulate its strategies to avoid threats in the international environment and exploit opportunities abroad that may shape the firm’s growth worldwide. In addition, managers involved in international business activities are called upon to face challenges related to economic integration, the role of national policy, the existence of developed, emerging and emerging markets, and to harmonize / tailor their practices appropriately. Consequently, the overall purpose of the course is to understand the wider content of International Business from the point of view of the manager, the entrepreneur and the overall business team focusing on a series of decisions related to the internationalized firm as well as the domestic and international markets. Teaching and discussion are based on cases and examples of firms in all parts of the world.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

• Define the concept of internationalization and distinguish the reasons why businesses are now internationalizing at an unprecedented rate.
• Identify the key political, economic, and technological changes that are stamping current developments as well as the opportunities explored, and the challenges, risks and problems faced by managers of international/multinational firms
• Examine culture, values, cultural differences and generally all those cultural parameters that affect the working environment.
• Investigate the impact of globalization and local responsiveness on international management and strategy.
• Analyse the strategies of internationalization followed by businesses
• Critically evaluate different market entry modes.
• Explain the nature and means of government intervention and propose ways of responding from business
• Examine the role of economic integration as well as the opportunities and the challenges faced by managers of international / multinational firms
• Critically assess the role played by developing countries and international emerging markets in international business