Head of Business Planning & Strategy - Ad & Media Company (A&M)

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

This role leads business planning and strategic initiatives for Rakuten’s Advertising and Media business in Japan. Candidates are expected to have strong experience in corporate planning, business strategy, consulting, finance, advertising, media, or a related field, with excellent analytical and presentation skills. The position requires the ability to assess market trends, develop medium- and long-term plans, build financial models, identify growth opportunities, and coordinate with senior executives and cross-functional teams. The successful candidate should be commercially minded, comfortable working with data, able to manage multiple projects, and capable of communicating effectively in both Japanese and English in a fast-moving, multinational environment.

About the employer

Rakuten Group, Inc. is a major Japanese technology and internet company headquartered in Tokyo. Founded in 1997, it operates a broad ecosystem that includes e-commerce, digital advertising, fintech, mobile communications, travel, entertainment, and online services. Rakuten’s membership and points platform connects many of its businesses, allowing customers and merchants to use services across the group. Rakuten Advertising and Media helps brands reach consumers through commerce data, digital marketing, media, and advertising solutions. The company has an international workforce and works with partners and customers worldwide. Its culture emphasizes entrepreneurship, innovation, customer value, and creating synergies across businesses. Employees may benefit from exposure to diverse industries, large-scale digital platforms, and cross-border projects, although the environment can be fast-paced and performance-oriented.

Working in Japan

Japan offers opportunities in technology, e-commerce, advertising, finance, engineering, hospitality, education, and international business, especially in Tokyo, Osaka, and major regional cities. Workplace culture values punctuality, preparation, teamwork, respect, and careful communication, while many global companies offer more flexible and English-friendly environments. Japan provides excellent public transport, safety, healthcare, food, and cultural experiences, but housing and daily costs can be high in 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 support sponsorship, but applicants should confirm requirements before accepting an offer. Relocation usually involves arranging housing, residence registration, health insurance, a bank account, and a phone contract. Learning basic Japanese is highly recommended for daily life and broader career development.