Head of Client Business, Ad & Media Company (A&M)

Job Description

The Head of Client Business will lead Rakuten’s advertising and media client business in Japan, developing revenue growth and long-term partnerships with major advertisers, agencies, and brands. The role typically requires substantial experience in digital advertising, media sales, account management, or business development, together with strong knowledge of Japan’s advertising market. Candidates should be confident managing senior stakeholders, setting commercial strategy, leading teams, negotiating contracts, and using data to improve campaign performance. Business-level Japanese and English communication skills are likely expected, along with strong leadership, presentation, analytical, and relationship-building abilities. Rakuten will expect the successful candidate to deliver sales results while coordinating effectively with internal product, data, marketing, and technology teams.

Company Info

Rakuten Group, headquartered in Tokyo, is one of Japan’s largest internet and technology companies. Founded in 1997, it operates a broad ecosystem covering e-commerce, fintech, mobile communications, digital content, travel, advertising, and other online services. Rakuten’s business model connects more than 70 services through a common membership and loyalty platform, allowing customers and merchants to interact across the group. Rakuten Advertising and its media businesses help brands reach consumers through shopping data, digital platforms, performance marketing, and audience insights. The company has an international workforce and promotes an energetic, entrepreneurial culture, although many roles in Japan require strong Japanese communication skills. Employees may work with teams across technology, sales, data, finance, and product development.

Destination Guide

Japan offers strong opportunities in technology, advertising, e-commerce, finance, engineering, tourism, healthcare, and multinational business. Tokyo provides the widest choice of international roles, while Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagoya, and Sapporo offer lower-cost alternatives and growing technology communities. Japanese workplaces value punctuality, preparation, teamwork, respect for hierarchy, and careful communication; English is useful, but Japanese greatly improves career prospects and daily life. Japan combines safe cities, excellent public transport, rich food culture, seasonal festivals, mountains, beaches, and a high standard of living. Rent and commuting costs can be significant in Tokyo. Foreign professionals generally need an employer-sponsored work visa, with eligibility depending on qualifications and job duties. Employers often assist with sponsorship and relocation, but candidates should confirm housing, tax, health insurance, and residence-registration arrangements before moving.