(Thunderbird International Business Review, 2020) Abugre, J.B.; Williams, K.; Debrah, Y.A.
This study aims to investigate the determinants of expatriates’ adjustments in
distant and complex multinational subsidiaries. Using the institutional theory as a
basis for expatriates’ assignments in complex subsidiaries, the work employed a
sequential mixed methodology of data collection. An in-depth face-to-face interview
with 21 senior expatriate executives and a quantitative survey of 204 expatriates
working in various multinational subsidiaries in Ghana served as data for the work.
Consequently, structural equation modeling (SEM) and content analysis were the
basis of the data analysis. Findings showed host country culture plays a significant
role in determining expatriate adjustment in distant subsidiaries. Findings also
showed expatriates’ competence in cross-cultural communication significantly determines expatriates’ adjustment in distant subsidiaries. The work recommends
intensive training of expatriates in cross-cultural communication and host cultural
values and behaviors for international assignees.
