Title: Black gold: corporate diplomatic ties of Maersk in Brazil

Authors: Hans Kristian Hedetoft; Gilberto Sarfati

Addresses: Department of Strategy and Organizations, FGV-EAESP, Avenida 9 de Julho, 2029 – 10 Andar, 01313-902, São Paulo, Brazil ' Department of Strategy and Organizations, FGV-EAESP, Avenida 9 de Julho, 2029 – 10 Andar, 01313-902, São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract: During the last three decades, globalisation has intensively pushed companies towards internationalisation. Corporations have become more independent state-like with diplomatic relations with other foreign official government in order to accompany these business demands, create risk-mitigating strategies, and gain legitimacy. The aim of this article is to explore the perceived role of corporate diplomacy on the complex relationship between Maersk Group, the Brazilian Governments and stakeholders involved in the oil and gas market. In order to understand the process of corporate diplomacy of the company, semi-structured interviews were conducted with Brazilian Government officials, Danish diplomats and Maersk employees. Findings reveal the strategic importance of corporate diplomacy for Maersk business in Brazil. Personal diplomatic ties forged with Maersk's representatives and Brazilian and Danish authorities are key to boost their objectives. It also shows the importance of the Danish diplomatic mission helping the company to gain access to government authorities.

Keywords: corporate diplomacy; corporate diplomat; Maersk; oil sector; Brazil.

DOI: 10.1504/IJDIPE.2017.084111

International Journal of Diplomacy and Economy, 2017 Vol.3 No.3, pp.205 - 218

Received: 27 Sep 2016
Accepted: 11 Oct 2016
Published online: 12 May 2017 *

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