This principal-level role is expected to shape strategy for Rakuten’s ecosystem platform, connecting services, partners, data, and customer experiences across the group. Requirements likely include substantial experience in platform strategy, product or business planning, ecosystem development, consulting, partnerships, or digital transformation; strong analytical, financial, and communication skills; and the ability to work with senior stakeholders in a complex international organization. The successful candidate should translate market and customer insights into practical growth initiatives, define priorities and performance measures, manage cross-functional programs, and influence teams without direct authority. Business-level English is likely important, while Japanese ability and experience in Japan’s technology or platform market would be advantageous.
Rakuten Group, Inc. is a major Japanese technology and internet 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 business model aims to connect these services through a shared membership base, loyalty program, data capabilities, and digital identity. Rakuten employs a diverse international workforce and works with customers and business partners in Japan and overseas. The company is known for its Englishnization policy in many corporate functions, although Japanese remains important in roles involving domestic operations and stakeholders. Employees may work in a fast-moving environment with opportunities to influence large-scale consumer and enterprise platforms, while also facing the complexity of coordinating across multiple businesses and organizational priorities.
Japan offers opportunities in technology, software engineering, cloud infrastructure, data, cybersecurity, finance, marketing, healthcare, tourism, and multinational business. Tokyo has the widest selection of international roles, while Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Sapporo also provide growing opportunities. Work culture values reliability, preparation, teamwork, and respect for hierarchy, though global companies often offer more flexible practices. Lifestyle combines excellent public transport, safety, convenience, seasonal food, and rich cultural traditions, but housing and commuting costs can be high in central Tokyo. Foreign professionals generally need an appropriate work visa, commonly the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa or a Highly Skilled Professional visa. Employers often sponsor applications, but candidates should confirm eligibility, documentation, health insurance, taxes, housing support, and relocation assistance. Learning basic Japanese is highly recommended for daily life, administration, and wider career development.
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