IT Governance Specialist (Guideline Development & Operations) - Company CIO Office

Role summary

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The role supports Rakuten’s CIO Office by developing, maintaining and operating company-wide IT governance guidelines, standards and processes. Responsibilities may include coordinating with technology and business teams, monitoring compliance, managing documentation, identifying governance gaps, and helping improve IT controls and decision-making. Candidates should have experience in IT governance, policy or guideline development, risk management, compliance, audit, or technology operations. Strong communication, documentation and stakeholder-management skills are expected, along with the ability to work across international teams. Familiarity with frameworks such as ISO 27001, COBIT, ITIL or related security and control standards would be advantageous. Business-level English is likely important; Japanese ability may also be preferred.

About the employer

Rakuten Group, Inc. is a major Japanese technology and internet services company headquartered in Tokyo. Founded in 1997, it operates a broad ecosystem covering e-commerce, fintech, mobile communications, digital content, travel, advertising and professional services. Rakuten is known for integrating these businesses through its membership and loyalty platform, giving customers access to multiple services with one account and rewards program. The company has a large international workforce and works with teams across Japan and overseas. Its corporate IT organization supports governance, security, infrastructure, systems and technology standards across a diverse and rapidly changing business. Employees typically work in a multicultural environment where cross-functional collaboration, innovation and operational improvement are valued.

Working in Japan

Japan offers strong opportunities in technology, cybersecurity, IT governance, software development, cloud services, finance, manufacturing and international business. Tokyo has the largest job market, while Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka and other regional cities also attract skilled professionals. Workplace culture often values reliability, preparation, teamwork and respect for hierarchy, although international companies may be more flexible. Japan provides excellent public transport, safety, healthcare, food and cultural experiences, but housing and daily costs can be high in Tokyo. Eligible foreign professionals generally need an appropriate work visa, commonly the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services status; the employer usually supports the application. Relocating typically involves securing a residence card, registered address, health insurance, pension enrollment and a bank account. Learning basic Japanese makes housing, administration and everyday life considerably easier.