Applying a risk management framework to an international supply chain

International supply chains (SCs) are highly exposed to uncertainty and subjected to the interrelated effects of adverse events occurring in different echelons. Literature on SC risk is quite rich from a theoretical point of view by classifying risk sources and providing methodologies to address the risk escalation process. However, there are few contributions illustrating practical applications of these approaches and studying the effects of a same risk source on multiple SC process. The latter characteristic is highly desirable in international SCs given their extended and interconnected nature. The present work applies a risk analysis framework to a portion of an international automotive SC. Two representative processes are investigated, the associated risk sources are identified and then associated with activities. Key performance indicators are selected and their cause and effect relationships are studied with the aim of assessing the multiple effects of risk sources. The application of the risk management approach allowed the focus company to develop a comprehensive knowledge of the risks affecting global SCs and their effects. The approach proves to be a valid tool to enhance companies’ maturity toward risk and the present work might stimulate research on how to address risks in international SCs.