13th Cambridge International Manufacturing Symposium

Global Value Chains - capturing value in international manufacturing and supply networks
25 - 26 September 2008 at the Møller Centre, Cambridge

The CIM Symposium

The Cambridge International Manufacturing Symposium provides a unique opportunity to hear how leading-edge, established companies are facing these issues, how firms from emerging countries are internationalising, and how UK firms can collaborate in these global value chains. The latest thinking from researchers working in the field will be presented capturing emerging patterns in value chain configuration.

Now in its 13th year, the Symposium has gained a reputation as a pre-eminent forum for the exploration of international manufacturing issues. As usual the event will be split into two independent, but related, parts.

Industry day

The industry day will focus on the factors influencing global strategy and operations, and the ways that companies are responding to these challenges.

Key issues include:

• Strategies to meet global developments
• Number, location and function of manufacturing sites
• Configuration of supply networks
• Co-ordination of manufacturing networks and supply chains
• Outsourcing of non-core activities and focus on core competencies
• Growth of manufacturing service companies
• Emergence of inter-company collaborative networks
• The role of M&A in developing international capabilities and reach

There will be ample opportunity for questions and informal discussion to enable delegates to assess the relevance of issues to their own sectors. An open forum at the end of the day will debate these issues and identify common themes and needs.

Research day

The research day aims to:

• identify emerging industrial issues and research opportunities
• exchange research ideas, observations and theories across different disciplines, sectors and countries

Papers will focus on capturing value in international supply networks. Parallel sessions will be grouped into the following subject areas:

• Analysis and design of manufacturing and supply networks
• Global industry structures; dynamics, capabilities, future trajectories, and regional perspectives
• Internationalisation of MNCs from emerging economies
• Redefining value chains; emerging business models and industrial development
• Cross-border mergers and acquisitions; role in firm growth and capability development
• New challenges in global value chains; sustainability considerations, co-ordination, national policy

While the exchange of ideas between the industrial and academic communities forms a significant feature of the Symposium, this structure is intended to accommodate those who cannot attend for the full two days.