Manager Candidate for Manager of Human Resources and Labor Practice - Employee Relations Section, Employee Relations Department, Group Human Resources Supervisory Department (GHRD)

Job Description

This role supports employee relations and labor-practice management across Rakuten Group. Responsibilities are likely to include handling workplace consultations, labor disputes, disciplinary matters, employment policies, compliance with Japanese labor law, union or employee representative discussions, and related HR projects. Candidates should have substantial experience in employee relations, labor affairs, HR policy, or employment law, preferably in a large or multinational organization. Strong knowledge of Japanese labor regulations, sound judgment, confidentiality, negotiation ability, and practical problem-solving skills are expected. Business-level Japanese is likely essential, while English communication is useful in Rakuten’s international environment. The successful candidate will be expected to advise managers, protect employee fairness, manage sensitive cases professionally, and eventually lead the Employee Relations Section.

Company Info

Rakuten Group, headquartered in Tokyo, is a major Japanese technology and internet company founded in 1997. Its businesses span e-commerce, online travel, digital content, fintech, credit cards, banking, securities, mobile communications, advertising, and other consumer and enterprise services. Rakuten operates a large ecosystem in which customers can use a common membership and loyalty program across multiple products. The company also has international operations and employs people from many countries, making cross-border collaboration an important part of its culture. Rakuten is known for its Englishnization initiative, although Japanese remains important for many domestic operations and employee-relations matters. The company offers opportunities in a fast-moving environment, but employees may also encounter ambitious targets, frequent organizational change, and the complexity of managing a broad technology and services portfolio.

Destination Guide

Japan offers strong opportunities in technology, finance, e-commerce, engineering, healthcare, education, tourism, and corporate support functions. Tokyo provides the widest choice of international jobs, while Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Sapporo can offer lower living costs and growing business communities. Japanese workplaces value punctuality, preparation, respect for hierarchy, teamwork, and careful communication. Daily life is generally safe, efficient, and convenient, with excellent public transport, reliable services, and varied food and cultural experiences. Housing in central Tokyo can be expensive, and learning Japanese is highly beneficial even when a company uses English. Most professional foreign workers need a work visa sponsored by an employer, commonly under an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services or Highly Skilled Professional status. Relocating usually involves securing an offer, arranging a Certificate of Eligibility, obtaining a residence card, registering an address, and enrolling in health insurance and pension. Family visas may be available for eligible dependents.