Land Acquisition Specialist - Business Innovation Department, RAKUTEN STAY, Inc. (Secondment) (C&M)

Role summary

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This role focuses on identifying, evaluating, negotiating, and securing land for RAKUTEN STAY’s accommodation and hospitality projects. Candidates are expected to have experience in land acquisition, real estate development, property transactions, or related business planning, along with strong negotiation and communication skills. The position requires researching locations, assessing commercial potential, coordinating with landowners, brokers, municipalities, and internal teams, and supporting projects from initial concept through contract execution. Japanese fluency is likely essential, while English or experience working with international stakeholders may be advantageous. The ideal candidate is commercially minded, organized, proactive, comfortable managing multiple stakeholders, and able to work independently in a fast-changing business environment.

About the employer

Rakuten is a major Japanese internet and technology group operating across e-commerce, fintech, mobile communications, digital content, travel, and online advertising. Founded in 1997, the company has developed a broad ecosystem of services connected through its Rakuten membership and loyalty program. Rakuten STAY, Inc. is part of this wider group and develops and operates vacation rentals, villas, hotels, and other technology-enabled accommodation facilities. Its business combines hospitality, real estate, digital platforms, and local tourism development. The company promotes an entrepreneurial, international working environment and often encourages employees to create new businesses within the Rakuten ecosystem. This land acquisition position supports the expansion of Rakuten STAY by finding suitable sites and building relationships with property owners, local communities, developers, and public authorities.

Working in Japan

Japan offers opportunities in technology, tourism, hospitality, real estate, finance, manufacturing, education, and international business. Tokyo and Osaka have the broadest professional markets, while Hokkaido, Okinawa, Kyushu, and regional cities offer growing roles in tourism, accommodation, logistics, and rural development. Japanese workplaces value punctuality, preparation, teamwork, respect, and careful communication, although international companies may have more flexible cultures. Daily life is generally safe and convenient, with excellent public transport, reliable services, and varied housing options; major cities can be expensive. Foreign employees usually need an appropriate work visa, commonly sponsored by the employer, and must meet education or professional-experience requirements. Relocating typically involves securing housing, registering an address, obtaining health insurance, and arranging a residence card and bank account. Learning practical Japanese greatly improves workplace and community integration.