Technical Director - Customer Strategy Department, Platform Strategy Supervisory Department (PFSD)

Job Description

This role requires strong experience in technology strategy, platform architecture, product or customer-facing systems, and leading technical teams or large-scale projects. The candidate is expected to work across business and engineering functions, translate customer and commercial needs into scalable platform plans, guide technical decision-making, and manage delivery priorities. Experience with cloud services, APIs, data platforms, enterprise systems, and modern software development is likely valuable. Strong communication skills are essential, as the position involves presenting proposals to senior stakeholders and coordinating international teams. Rakuten will expect strategic thinking, practical execution, leadership, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, multilingual environment.

Company Info

Rakuten Group, Inc. is a major Japanese technology and internet services company headquartered in Tokyo. Founded in 1997, it operates a broad ecosystem covering e-commerce, fintech, mobile communications, digital content, advertising, travel, and online services. Rakuten is known for connecting these businesses through a shared membership, payments, loyalty, and data platform. The company has a strong international presence and works with customers, merchants, partners, and technology teams across multiple markets. Its culture emphasizes innovation, entrepreneurship, customer value, and collaboration across business lines. Employees often work in global, English-friendly environments, although Japanese may be important for some stakeholders and internal processes. This position sits within a technology strategy function focused on platform direction and customer-oriented business development.

Destination Guide

Japan offers opportunities in software engineering, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, data, fintech, telecommunications, manufacturing technology, healthcare, and international business. Tokyo provides the largest job market, while Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Sapporo also offer growing technology communities. Japanese workplace culture values punctuality, preparation, teamwork, and respect for hierarchy, though global companies may be more flexible. Daily life is safe and convenient, with excellent public transport, reliable services, and a wide range of housing and food options. Tokyo living costs, especially rent, can be high. Foreign professionals normally need an employer-sponsored work visa, such as an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa; highly skilled workers may qualify for preferential treatment. Before relocating, arrange housing, health insurance, tax registration, and a residence card. Learning basic Japanese improves daily communication and career prospects.