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Marketing Strategy, Finance - Marketing Planning Office, Rakuten Ichiba Marketing Department (C&M)

Rakuten
Full-time
On-site
Tokyo, Tōkyō, Japan
πŸ’‘ Marketing Strategy & Planning

πŸ“Œ Core Information

πŸ”Ή Job Title: Marketing Strategy, Finance - Marketing Planning Office, Rakuten Ichiba Marketing Department (C&M)

πŸ”Ή Company: Rakuten

πŸ”Ή Location: Tokyo, Japan

πŸ”Ή Job Type: Full-time

πŸ”Ή Category: Marketing

πŸ”Ή Date Posted: May 17, 2025

πŸ”Ή Experience Level: 5-10 years

πŸ”Ή Remote Status: On-site

πŸš€ Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

  • Optimizing investment allocation based on business strategy performance
  • Managing marketing investments across the department
  • Analyzing and promoting improvements related to profitability
  • Forecasting and budget management of Rakuten Ichiba's GMS
  • Establishing and systemizing analytical methods to enhance the effectiveness of marketing initiatives

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset and strong analytical skills to drive business growth and improve marketing efficiency. It involves cross-functional collaboration and data-driven decision making.

πŸ“‹ Key Responsibilities

βœ… Optimize investment allocation based on the performance of business strategies and various initiatives

βœ… Manage marketing investments across the entire department

βœ… Analyze and promote improvements related to profitability

βœ… Forecast and manage the budget of Rakuten Ichiba's GMS (Gross Merchandise Sales)

βœ… Establish and systemize analytical methods to enhance the accuracy of measuring the effectiveness of marketing initiatives

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of marketing strategies, data analysis, and budget management. It involves both strategic planning and hands-on implementation.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Experience: Over 3 years of professional experience

Required Skills:

  • Data analysis and strategy development based on analysis
  • Experience in managing GMS and costs
  • Ability to aggregate, analyze, and create materials using data extracted from a database with Excel functions (e.g., LOOKUP, INDEX, MATCH, etc.)

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience in online marketing (e.g., e-commerce businesses)
  • Experience in B2C marketing
  • Experience managing organizational KPIs or budgets
  • Knowledge of managerial accounting or experience in business strategy
  • Experience using SQL

ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in e-commerce, marketing, and data analysis will be well-suited for this role. Familiarity with Rakuten Ichiba and its business strategies is a plus.

πŸ’° Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for marketing strategy roles in Japan, the estimated salary range is Β₯8,000,000 - Β₯12,000,000 per year. This is an estimate and the actual salary may vary based on experience and performance.

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive health insurance
  • Retirement benefits
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)
  • Flexible work arrangements

Working Hours: Full-time position with standard Japanese working hours (8:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Monday to Friday) with a one-hour lunch break. Overtime may be required based on business needs.

ASSUMPTION: The salary range is estimated based on market research and may vary depending on the candidate's experience and performance. Benefits are subject to change and may be updated based on company policies.

πŸ“Œ Applicant Insights

πŸ” Company Context

Industry: Rakuten is a global leader in internet services, with a focus on e-commerce, fintech, digital content, and communications. It operates in 30 countries and regions, serving over 1.9 billion members worldwide.

Company Size: Rakuten has over 10,000 employees globally, providing a large and diverse work environment.

Founded: Rakuten was founded in Tokyo, Japan, in 1997.

Company Description:

  • Rakuten Ichiba is Rakuten's founding business and one of the largest e-commerce platforms in Japan.
  • The Ichiba Marketing Department is responsible for driving marketing strategies to expand the sales of Rakuten Ichiba.
  • The Marketing Planning Office focuses on mid- to long-term growth across Rakuten Ichiba services.

Company Specialties:

  • E-commerce (Rakuten Ichiba, Rakuten Books, etc.)
  • Card & Payments
  • Life & Leisure support services
  • Communications & Energy & Mobile
  • 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 large size and diverse business portfolio offer numerous growth opportunities and exposure to various industries.

πŸ“Š Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is suitable for mid-career professionals seeking to leverage their experience in marketing strategy and data analysis to drive business growth.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to the Manager of the Marketing Planning Office within the Rakuten Ichiba Marketing Department.

Work Arrangement: This is an on-site position based at the Rakuten Crimson House in Tokyo, Japan.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Potential career progression within the Marketing Department or other departments within Rakuten.
  • Opportunities to work on cross-functional projects and gain exposure to different aspects of the business.
  • Possibility to develop leadership skills through mentoring and team management opportunities.

ASSUMPTION: This role offers growth opportunities through exposure to various aspects of the business, cross-functional collaboration, and potential career progression within Rakuten.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the Rakuten Crimson House, a modern office building with collaborative workspaces and amenities.

Office Location(s): 1-14-1 Tamagawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo

Geographic Context:

  • Tokyo is a major global city with a vibrant culture, numerous entertainment options, and excellent dining experiences.
  • The Setagaya-ku district offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with easy access to public transportation and shopping districts.
  • The Rakuten Crimson House is located near several parks and recreational facilities, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.

Work Schedule: Standard Japanese working hours with flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting, available based on business needs and manager approval.

ASSUMPTION: The work environment at Rakuten is collaborative and dynamic, with a focus on innovation and continuous improvement. The location offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with easy access to public transportation and recreational facilities.

πŸ’Ό Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

  • Online application submission
  • Phone or video screening
  • On-site or virtual interview with the hiring manager and team members
  • Final decision and offer

Key Assessment Areas:

  • Data analysis and strategy development skills
  • Communication and presentation skills
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
  • Cultural fit and alignment with Rakuten's values

Application Tips:

  • Highlight relevant experience in marketing strategy, data analysis, and budget management.
  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to emphasize skills and experiences that match the required and preferred qualifications.
  • Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, and ability to work collaboratively.

ATS Keywords: Marketing strategy, data analysis, budget management, GMS, profitability, marketing initiatives, Rakuten Ichiba, e-commerce, B2C marketing, organizational KPIs, SQL

ASSUMPTION: The application process at Rakuten is competitive and focuses on assessing candidates' skills, experiences, and cultural fit. Preparation and research are key to success in the application process.

πŸ› οΈ Tools & Technologies

  • Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint)
  • SQL
  • Data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
  • Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)

ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, SQL, and data visualization tools is essential for this role. Experience with project management tools is a plus.

πŸ‘” Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

  • Empowerment
  • Optimism
  • Gratitude
  • Integrity
  • Perseverance

Work Style:

  • Collaborative and team-oriented
  • Data-driven and analytical
  • Innovative and forward-thinking
  • Adaptable and open to change

Self-Assessment Questions:

  • Do you thrive in a collaborative, data-driven environment?
  • Are you able to analyze complex data and develop strategic recommendations?
  • Do you have experience managing budgets and driving profitability improvements?
  • Are you comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment?

ASSUMPTION: Rakuten values candidates who are collaborative, data-driven, and aligned with the company's core values. Self-assessment questions help candidates evaluate their fit with the company culture and work environment.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

  • Managing multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • Collaborating with cross-functional teams and stakeholders
  • Adapting to changes in business strategies and priorities
  • Working with large datasets and complex analysis

ASSUMPTION: This role presents challenges related to managing multiple priorities, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and working with complex data. Candidates should be prepared to adapt to a dynamic work environment and manage competing demands.

πŸ“ˆ Similar Roles Comparison

  • This role is similar to a Marketing Strategy Manager or a Business Analyst role within an e-commerce or retail organization.
  • However, this role is unique in its focus on the mid- to long-term growth of Rakuten Ichiba services and its emphasis on profitability improvement.
  • Career progression in this role could lead to senior marketing management positions or business strategy roles within Rakuten or other organizations.

ASSUMPTION: While this role shares similarities with other marketing strategy and business analyst roles, its focus on Rakuten Ichiba's mid- to long-term growth and profitability improvement sets it apart. Career progression opportunities depend on individual performance and the organization's needs.

πŸ“ Sample Projects

  • Developing an annual GMS forecast and budget plan for Rakuten Ichiba
  • Planning investment allocation and driving execution within the department to achieve GMS targets
  • Analyzing market trends and data to improve GMS forecasts and enhance the accuracy of measuring the effectiveness of marketing initiatives

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the strategic and analytical nature of the role, focusing on GMS forecasting, budget management, and data-driven decision making.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

  • Can you describe the team structure and dynamics within the Marketing Planning Office?
  • How does this role contribute to the overall business strategy and growth of Rakuten Ichiba?
  • What are the key priorities for this role in the first 90 days?
  • How does Rakuten support the professional development and growth of its employees?
  • What is the typical career path for someone in this role, and what opportunities exist for growth within Rakuten?

ASSUMPTION: These key questions help candidates better understand the role, the team, and the company, enabling them to make informed decisions about their application and potential fit with the organization.

πŸ“Œ Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

  • Submit your application through the Rakuten careers website
  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
  • Prepare for the interview by researching Rakuten, the role, and the company's values
  • Follow up with the hiring manager or HR representative within one week of submitting your application to confirm receipt and express your interest in the position

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.