Maturity of risk management in agricultural supply chains

Purpose - This paper aims to assess the maturity level in the strategic risk management of an agricultural cooperative’s supply chain. Design/methodology/approach - A descriptive qualitative research approach was employed for a case study. Four interview scripts were administered to 15 stakeholders within the supply chain and subjected to content analysis. Findings - The findings reveal 23 strategic risks in the supply chain, whereas the maturity assessment identified five dimensions at the “Defined” level and two at the “Fragmented” level. To elevate the risk management maturity, this paper delineated 22 intervention actions. Research limitations/implications - The theoretical contribution is the presentation of the various maturity assessment models and how they can be employed in studies on agribusiness supply chain risks. Practical implications - Managerial implications underscore the formal establishment of a risk governance unit, the appointment of a Chief Risk Officer (CRO) and the constitution of an interdisciplinary risk management committee. Social implications - Cooperatives contribute to adding value to rural production in many regions and project small and medium-sized producers in global markets. They play an economic and social role, promoting fair prices and providing services to members and the community. Efficient risk management can contribute to fostering the social role of cooperatives. Originality/value - No maturity model for risk management in agribusiness supply chains is listed in the literature. This study can contribute to the development of such maturity models.