π Core Information
πΉ Job Title: Marketing / Creative AI Enhancement Manager - Marketing Division
πΉ Company: Rakuten
πΉ Location: Tokyo, Japan
πΉ Job Type: Full-Time
πΉ Category: Marketing
πΉ Date Posted: May 20, 2025
πΉ Experience Level: 2-5 years
πΉ Remote Status: On-site
π Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Driving Rakuten Group's growth by strengthening marketing and creative operations processes using AI and latest technologies.
- Planning and supporting the implementation of cutting-edge technologies and methodologies within the Solution Strategy Division.
- Collaborating with various business units to execute and manage business process improvement projects.
- Communicating and coordinating with relevant departments and stakeholders to gather information and establish improvement cycles.
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a balance of strategic thinking, technical understanding, and strong communication skills to drive operational excellence across the organization.
π Key Responsibilities
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Analyze current marketing and creative operations processes and identify key challenges.
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Plan and promote the implementation of technologies such as AI, RPA, and machine learning to improve efficiency and enhance operations.
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Execute and manage the progress of business process improvement projects in collaboration with various business units.
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Gather information, conduct research, and communicate internally about the latest technologies.
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Measure the effectiveness of business process improvements and establish improvement cycles.
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Collaborate and coordinate with relevant departments, and communicate with stakeholders.
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a mix of strategic planning, project management, and stakeholder communication, requiring a versatile skill set.
π― Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Business, Marketing, Computer Science, or a related discipline).
Experience: Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in business process improvement, strategy development, or technology implementation projects at a consulting firm.
Required Skills:
- Strong problem-solving and project management skills.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with various departments.
- Fluency in English (Business level or higher).
Preferred Skills:
- Knowledge or practical experience with cutting-edge technologies such as AI, RPA, and machine learning.
- Experience using website analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics).
- Knowledge or experience with Agile development methodologies.
- Experience in business process improvement projects within large organizations.
ASSUMPTION: Given the nature of the role, candidates with a strong background in process improvement, technology implementation, and stakeholder management are likely to succeed.
π° Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: Based on Rakuten's compensation structure and industry standards for similar roles, the estimated salary range for this position is Β₯6,000,000 - Β₯9,000,000 per year (approximately USD$47,000 - USD$70,000).
Benefits:
- Comprehensive health insurance.
- Retirement benefits.
- Employee stock purchase plan.
- Generous vacation and holiday policies.
Working Hours: Full-time position with standard Japanese working hours (8:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Monday to Friday), with some flexibility for remote work.
ASSUMPTION: Rakuten offers competitive compensation and benefits packages for their employees, with salary ranges based on experience and performance.
π Applicant Insights
π Company Context
Industry: Rakuten operates in the e-commerce, fintech, digital content, and communications sectors, with a strong focus on technology and innovation.
Company Size: Rakuten is a large organization with over 10,000 employees globally, offering a dynamic and diverse work environment.
Founded: Rakuten was founded in Tokyo, Japan, in 1997, and has since grown into a global leader in its industries.
Company Description:
- Rakuten Group, Inc. (TSE: 4755) is a global technology leader in services that empower individuals, communities, businesses, and society.
- Founded as an online marketplace, Rakuten has expanded to offer services in e-commerce, fintech, digital content, and communications to 1.9 billion members worldwide.
- Rakuten is committed to driving innovation and operational excellence across its diverse business sectors.
Company Specialties:
- E-commerce platforms (Rakuten Ichiba, Rakuten Books).
- Card and payments services.
- Life and leisure support services.
- Communications, energy, and mobile services.
- Investment, sports, digital contents, open EC, AD, affiliate, securities, bank, insurance, travel, mobile, mobile network operator, telecommunications, and artificial intelligence.
Company Website: https://global.rakuten.com/corp/
ASSUMPTION: Rakuten's diverse business portfolio and global presence offer unique opportunities for career growth and development.
π Role Analysis
Career Level: This role is at the mid-level management tier, with opportunities for growth and advancement within the organization.
Reporting Structure: The role reports directly to the head of the Solution Strategy Division within the Operating Model Integration Department.
Work Arrangement: This is an on-site position, with some flexibility for remote work, depending on the specific needs of the projects and the team.
Growth Opportunities:
- Progression to senior management roles within the department or related areas.
- Expansion of responsibilities to cover additional business units or regions.
- Development of expertise in emerging technologies and methodologies.
ASSUMPTION: This role offers strong growth potential for candidates who demonstrate exceptional performance and a commitment to driving operational excellence.
π Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Rakuten's headquarters is located in the Rakuten Crimson House, a modern and spacious office building in Setagaya-ku, Tokyo.
Office Location(s): Rakuten Crimson House, 1-14-1 Tamagawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 158-0094, JP
Geographic Context:
- Tokyo is a major global city with a vibrant business environment and a high quality of life.
- The Setagaya-ku district offers easy access to public transportation, shopping, and dining options.
- Rakuten's office is located near several parks and green spaces, providing opportunities for outdoor activities during breaks.
Work Schedule: Standard Japanese working hours (8:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Monday to Friday), with some flexibility for remote work.
ASSUMPTION: Rakuten's office environment is designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and productivity, with a focus on employee well-being and work-life balance.
πΌ Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission.
- Phone or video screening to assess communication skills and cultural fit.
- On-site interview with the hiring manager and relevant team members to discuss the role, responsibilities, and qualifications.
- Final decision and offer.
Key Assessment Areas:
- Problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
- Project management and organizational skills.
- Communication and collaboration abilities.
- Technical understanding of AI, RPA, and machine learning.
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in business process improvement, technology implementation, and stakeholder management.
- Demonstrate your understanding of Rakuten's business and the role's requirements in your application materials.
- Prepare examples of your past achievements in process improvement and project management to discuss during the interview.
ATS Keywords: Business Process Improvement, Strategy Development, Technology Implementation, AI, RPA, Machine Learning, Project Management, Communication, Collaboration, Marketing Operations, Creative Operations, Rakuten
ASSUMPTION: Rakuten's application process is designed to assess candidates' skills, experience, and cultural fit, with a focus on finding the best match for the role and the organization.
π οΈ Tools & Technologies
- AI, RPA, and machine learning tools and platforms.
- Project management software (e.g., Asana, Trello, Jira).
- Data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Excel, Google Analytics, Tableau).
- Communication and collaboration tools (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace).
ASSUMPTION: The specific tools and technologies used in this role may vary depending on the projects and business units involved.
π Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Empowerment: Rakuten values employees who take initiative and drive results.
- Optimism: Rakuten fosters a positive and can-do attitude in its employees.
- Gratitude: Rakuten appreciates and recognizes the contributions of its employees.
Work Style:
- Collaborative: Rakuten encourages teamwork and cross-functional collaboration.
- Innovative: Rakuten values employees who think creatively and challenge the status quo.
- Adaptable: Rakuten expects employees to be flexible and responsive to change.
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you thrive in a dynamic and collaborative work environment?
- Are you comfortable driving change and improvement initiatives?
- Do you have a positive and solution-oriented attitude?
ASSUMPTION: Rakuten's company culture is characterized by empowerment, optimism, and collaboration, with a strong focus on driving innovation and operational excellence.
β οΈ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously may require strong organizational skills and time management.
- Working with cutting-edge technologies may present learning curves and adaptation challenges.
- Balancing strategic planning and day-to-day project management may require a high level of adaptability.
- Collaborating with diverse business units and teams may necessitate strong communication and interpersonal skills.
ASSUMPTION: These challenges can be overcome by candidates who possess strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
π Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is similar to a Business Process Improvement Manager or a Marketing Operations Manager, with a focus on driving operational excellence through technology and process improvement.
- In comparison to other marketing roles, this position requires a stronger focus on process management, technology implementation, and cross-functional collaboration.
- Career progression in this role may lead to senior management positions within the department or related areas, with opportunities to expand responsibilities and impact.
ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique blend of strategic planning, project management, and stakeholder communication, with strong growth potential for the right candidate.
π Sample Projects
- Implementing AI-driven marketing analytics to optimize campaign performance and improve ROI.
- Streamlining creative operations workflows using RPA to enhance efficiency and reduce manual effort.
- Collaborating with business units to identify and address key process bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the diverse and impactful nature of the role, with a focus on driving operational excellence and enhancing marketing and creative effectiveness.
β Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the most pressing challenges facing the marketing and creative operations teams, and how does this role address them?
- How does this role collaborate with other departments and business units to drive operational excellence?
- What are the key priorities for this role in the first 90 days, and how will success be measured?
- How does Rakuten support the professional development and growth of employees in this role?
- What is the work-life balance like for employees in this role, and how does Rakuten support work-life integration?
ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful and insightful questions during the interview demonstrates your interest in the role and your commitment to driving success in the position.
π Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
β οΈ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.