DescriptionThis thesis explores the role that various network constructs play in explaining partner selection in the formation of new supply chain manufacturing joint ventures. The overarching perspective of the thesis takes root in the idea that the structural properties of the network in which a firm is embedded are a significant explanatory mechanism in understanding supply chain manufacturing joint venture formations. This thesis draws from and extends the current understanding of social network and collaborative partnership theories by positing specific, theoretically driven hypotheses regarding various structural network characteristics such as ego network composition, measures of network centrality and network remoteness. This thesis further extends the current body of knowledge on supply chain joint ventures by comparing the joint venture formations of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Component Suppliers. Additional hypotheses regarding joint venture formations of domestic and international partners are also explored. In order to empirically test these hypotheses four econometric models are estimated: two discrete time event history analyses, with time-varying independent variables are used to estimate the effects of the ego network and structural network constructs on the probability of a new manufacturing Joint Venture being formed. Additionally, to test the varying effects of OEMs as compared with Component Suppliers, and International vs. Domestic joint venture formations, two separate multinomial logistic event history models with time-varying independent variables are estimated. Results provide empirical support for the role of network structure, at multiple levels, in mitigating the uncertainties of new equity based partnership decisions in global supply chain networks.