Knowledge sharing between subsidiary and headquarters: A framework proposal

Abstract

The pharmaceutical industry (PI) is recognized as a knowledge-intensive industry. Based on the perspective of managers in the subsidiary, this research proposes actions to facilitate knowledge sharing in the relationship between subsidiary and headquarters in a multinational pharmaceutical company. An exploratory case study was conducted. Data were collected from documental content analysis and fourteen interviews with managers from various areas and departments. The benefits include the possibility of participating in global projects and the resultant positive exposure accrued by the subsidiary. While the predominant knowledge flow is from the headquarters to the subsidiary, there is an opportunity to expand the flow in the opposite direction. Based on this study, actions designed to mitigate this point of disruption can be undertaken. This research offers a framework that encompasses the flow of knowledge, the main facilitators and barriers to knowledge sharing between geographically dispersed multinational units, as well as the knowledge sharing mechanisms.