Bedeutung und Rolle des Einkaufs bei mittelgrossen Schweizer Unternehmen. Qualitative Untersuchung der Herausforderungen und Aufgaben

This dissertation concerns the significance and role of purchasing in medium-sized Swiss companies. It is a qualitative investigation of the challenges and responsibilities involved. The focus is on the self-perception of purchasing. Swiss purchasers have protested in various media and various round table discussions that purchasing lacks any significant value. The significance of procurement and awareness of what it involves was thrust into the spotlight during the (Covid-19) pandemic years. The effects and the consequences of procurement restrictions have become clear and well-known. Little research has been conducted on the topic of purchasing. Neither has there been much research in this area to date at medium-sized companies. This dissertation addresses this situation and provides a scientific foundation in the form of basic research.

A thorough study of available literature and the recommendations derived from it are presented in a theoretical positioning model. This is followed by an empirical survey in the form of twelve expert interviews with purchasing directors, CPOs and CEOs. All interviewees work in senior positions at medium-sized Swiss companies (i.e. of between 50 and 250 employees). The interviews were evaluated using grounded theory. The results were checked for interrater reliability using Cohen's kappa. This produced 14 categories with 40 criteria, which were transferred to an empirical model. The empirical positioning model was contrasted with the theoretical model (derived from literature). Finally, a recommendation model was derived from both these models. In addition, a series of checklists were drawn up that can be returned to the industry.

Multiple other avenues for research were detected and shown. Further-reaching research work may be proposed and carried out on the basis of this dissertation.