Nowadays food products are produced in vertically collaborating networks. The questions of how such chain networks have to be designed and which governance structure fits best have been addressed in several well known articles. However, questions dealing with chain strategy and management are not discussed satisfyingly. Neither is the understanding of what is success of chain management distinguished. A comprehension of these aspects can have crucial implications for the agribusiness of transition countries. Thus, we will address these questions with regard to Ukraine.