Entrepreneurial SCM competence and performance of manufacturing SMEs

This study reviewed the literature and interviewed managers to discover the dimensions of a new construct called the entrepreneurial supply chain management competence of small and medium-sized enterprises. We measured entrepreneurial SCM competence in terms of five first-order constructs: innovation orientation, proactiveness orientation, risk-taking characteristics, relational capital, and coordination capability. We further proposed that this competence affects SMEs' performance directly and indirectly via the firm's SCM strategies. A set of survey data collected from automotive OEM suppliers in five ASEAN countries was used to test the research model. Results show that the five constructs are important dimensions of entrepreneurial SCM competence, and that they affect performance indirectly. Our findings provide valuable insights about the enablers of an SME's SCM practices and their effects on firm performance.