Honcharenko Iryna, Doctor of Economics, Professor, Department of Public Management and Administration and International Economics, Mykolaiv National Agrarian University, Mykolaiv, Ukraine

ORCID: 0000-0001-9670-9812
e-mail: honcharenko@mnau.edu.ua

Dubinina Maryna Doctor of Sciences in Economics, Professor, Head of Department of Accounting and Taxation, Mykolayiv National Agrarian University, Mykolaiv, Ukraine

ORCID: 0000-0002-3993-0622
e-mail: dubinina@mnau.edu.ua

Risk Management of Outsourcing Services by Enterprises under Economic Instability

Abstract. Introduction. The article examines outsourcing services as a tool for optimizing enterprise activities and enhancing competitiveness in a volatile economic environment. Outsourcing is treated as a strategic management instrument, linking operational efficiency, financial performance, risk exposure, and organizational adaptability. The study highlights that outsourcing, while offering significant organizational and economic advantages, also generates a set of risks, which, if unmanaged, can undermine expected benefits. Special attention is given to how strategic, financial, operational, legal, informational, personnel, and reputational risks affect enterprise stability and how these risks interact under external shocks.

Purpose. The study aims to substantiate theoretical foundations and develop practical approaches for managing and mitigating risks associated with outsourcing services. This includes identifying key risk groups, analyzing their impact on business processes, and proposing structured managerial actions to minimize negative outcomes while maintaining core competencies.

Results. The research identifies critical risks, including loss of control over key business processes, excessive dependence on external providers, and information security breaches. The CAVER+Shock method is applied to comprehensively assess risk levels, considering both internal process characteristics and external shock factors. A framework for risk mitigation is proposed, integrating strategic planning, contractual regulation, continuous monitoring, and preservation of essential competencies. Prioritization of risks enables targeted interventions, such as contractual safeguards, partner diversification, functional reserves, and monitoring systems.

Conclusions. Effective risk management in outsourcing requires an integrated, indicator-based approach with feedback loops. Enterprises should prioritize maintaining control over critical processes, securing information, monitoring performance, and ensuring continuity of essential operations. The proposed methodology allows for practical application in enterprise risk management systems, supporting decision-making under economic uncertainty and enhancing overall resilience.

Keywords: outsourcing, outsourcing services, risk management, outsourcing risks, performance effectiveness, strategic planning, CAVER+Shock method.

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