Licensing, Contract, & Intellectual Property Planning Specialist - IP Strategy Section, Strategic Business Compliance Support Department, Group Compliance Supervisory Department

Job Description

This role supports Rakuten’s intellectual property strategy, licensing activities, contract planning, and business compliance across the Group. Responsibilities may include managing IP-related agreements, coordinating with internal business units and legal teams, monitoring risks, supporting negotiations, and developing policies or processes for effective IP use. Candidates are expected to have experience in intellectual property, contracts, licensing, legal affairs, or corporate compliance, along with strong planning and communication skills. Business-level Japanese and English are likely valuable, as the position involves cross-functional and potentially international collaboration. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, commercially aware, discreet with confidential information, and able to manage multiple stakeholders and projects independently.

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 spanning e-commerce, fintech, mobile communications, digital content, travel, online advertising, and professional sports. Its membership and loyalty platform connects many of these services through the Rakuten brand and Rakuten Points. The company has expanded internationally through acquisitions, partnerships, and technology investment, creating a multicultural working environment in many departments. Rakuten promotes innovation, entrepreneurship, and internal collaboration, while also managing complex legal, regulatory, data, and intellectual-property requirements across its businesses. Employees may work with teams in Japan and overseas, making language ability, adaptability, and an understanding of global business valuable. Tokyo-based roles generally offer exposure to large-scale digital operations and diverse corporate projects.

Destination Guide

Japan offers strong opportunities in technology, e-commerce, finance, engineering, consulting, healthcare, education, tourism, and international business. Tokyo provides the widest choice of professional roles, while Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Sapporo offer lower-cost alternatives and growing technology or service sectors. Japanese workplaces value punctuality, preparation, teamwork, and respect for hierarchy, although international companies can be more flexible. Daily life is safe and convenient, with excellent public transport, reliable services, and varied food and entertainment. Housing and commuting costs are highest in Tokyo, and learning Japanese makes work and social integration easier. Most foreign professionals need an employer-sponsored work visa, commonly the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services status; highly skilled professionals may qualify for a points-based visa. Relocation usually involves securing a job offer, arranging housing, registering locally, obtaining health insurance, and opening a bank account. Requirements vary by nationality and role, so confirm details with immigration authorities.