BANGOR UNIVERSITY

SPRING 2016 SEMESTER DEGREE EXAMINATIONS 2015/16

CHARTERED BANKER MBA PROGRAMME

ASB 9033 Corporate Strategy

TIME ALLOWED: 3 HOURS plus 10 minutes reading time at the start

of the examination.

NO PROGRAMMABLE CALCULATORS ARE PERMITTED

THIS IS AN OPEN BOOK EXAMINATION

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATES

Please answer 2 questions only (all questions carry equal marks)

AS THIS IS AN OPEN-BOOK EXAMINATION, YOU ARE EXPECTED

TO CITE ALL SOURCE MATERIAL USED AND REFRAIN FROM
TRANSCRIPTION.

CS_1604_04
QUESTION 1

Write a critical report to a chief executive of a financial institution who asked you to advise
whether or not the company should diversify its products and services.

QUESTION 2

There are three broad methods for pursuing strategy: mergers and acquisitions, strategic
alliances, and organic development. Critically discuss the main challenges for corporate
headquarters of each method. Provide examples from organizations of your choice.

QUESTION 3

What would be the key issues for the corporate parent of a diversified organisation with a
multi domestic international strategy wishing to change to a more related portfolio, and
why? Consider this in terms of the implications for organising and controlling its
subsidiaries. Provide examples from an organization of your choice to support your answer.

QUESTION 4

In the context of leading strategic change, critically compare and contrast the different types
of strategic change and assess different styles of leading strategic change. Support your
answer with examples.

QUESTION 5

Using the criteria of suitability, acceptability and feasibility undertake an evaluation of the
strategic option for an organisation of your choice.

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