In this conceptual paper, we use the multiple agency theory to explain the governance issues in cross-sector partnerships. In doing so, we identify five typologies of cross-sector partnerships, each distinct from one another in terms of the governance structure. We also discuss three problems that occur in these relationships, mainly differences in institutional logic, temporal differences, and free-riding and opportunistic behavior, as well as how these problems affect each type of cross-sector partnership. These findings make several significant contributions to the literature and theories. First, this is one of the few studies to use agency theory to examine the governance structures and problems in cross-sector partnerships. Second, our study further contributes to solidifying our understanding of the agency problems arising in cross-sector collaborations. Lastly, our study confirms their presence in other types of cross-sector partnerships as well and we maintain that these problems do not affect each type of cross-sector partnership in the same way, leading us to offer more nuanced implications for researchers and practitioners.

• Jihye Kim(University of Dundee, UK)
• Jiwon Song(University of Edinburgh, UK)
• Dhruba, Borah(University of Liverpool, UK)