Marketing Research Director - Sales & Client Direction Section, Marketing Partner Business, Rakuten Insight, Inc. (Secondment)(A&M)

Job Description

This role leads marketing research and client-direction activities for Rakuten Insight’s marketing partner business. Requirements likely include substantial experience in marketing research, consulting, account management, or client solutions; strong project leadership; excellent analytical and presentation skills; and the ability to communicate with Japanese and international stakeholders. Experience designing research proposals, interpreting consumer data, managing client relationships, and developing business opportunities is valuable. The candidate is expected to understand client objectives, translate business questions into effective research plans, guide internal and external teams, present actionable insights, and contribute to sales growth. A collaborative, commercially minded approach and comfort working in a cross-functional, multicultural environment are important.

Company Info

Rakuten is a major Japanese technology and internet services group founded in 1997 and headquartered in Tokyo. Its businesses span e-commerce, fintech, mobile communications, digital content, travel, advertising, and professional services. The company operates a large membership ecosystem in Japan and internationally, allowing customers to earn and use Rakuten Points across multiple services. Rakuten Insight, the relevant business, provides online market research, consumer panels, data collection, and insight solutions for companies seeking to understand customer behavior. Rakuten promotes a global, entrepreneurial working environment and employs people from many nationalities. Roles commonly involve collaboration across business units, markets, and technology platforms. Compensation, benefits, working arrangements, and language requirements vary by position, so applicants should confirm the specific conditions in the official vacancy and recruitment process.

Destination Guide

Japan offers opportunities in technology, software engineering, data, finance, consulting, marketing, education, tourism, manufacturing, and customer support. Tokyo provides the broadest international job market, while Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Sapporo, and regional areas offer different opportunities and lower living costs. Work culture values reliability, teamwork, preparation, and respect for hierarchy, although international companies may be more flexible. Daily life is safe, organized, and supported by excellent public transportation, but housing and commuting in Tokyo can be expensive. English-only roles exist, especially in technology and global businesses, while Japanese ability significantly improves career options and integration. Most non-Japanese citizens need an appropriate work visa, typically sponsored by an employer; requirements depend on qualifications and job type. New arrivals should arrange housing, residence registration, health insurance, banking, and a residence card. Research the employer’s relocation and visa support before accepting an offer.