π Core Information
πΉ Job Title: Strategic Business Planner (Rakuten Senior Business)
πΉ Company: Rakuten
πΉ Location: Tokyo, Japan
πΉ Job Type: Full-time
πΉ Category: Marketing
πΉ Date Posted: July 4, 2025
πΉ Experience Level: 5-10 years
πΉ Remote Status: On-site
π Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Developing and executing business strategies for Rakuten Senior, a rapidly growing senior-focused business
- Collaborating with various teams and external partners to create innovative solutions for the senior market
- Utilizing Rakuten's big data and unique marketing approaches to drive user engagement and growth
- Addressing social issues associated with an aging society, such as extending healthy life expectancy and bridging the digital divide
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
π Key Responsibilities
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Planning and executing business strategies to increase user engagement and grow Rakuten Senior's application and health media platforms
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Strengthening the foundation of existing functions and contents through strategic planning and execution
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Measuring the effectiveness of implemented plans and preparing reports
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Collaborating with internal teams and external partners to develop and execute business strategies
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Formulating product strategies and proposing measures to support implementation
ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and in a team setting.
π― Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field
Experience: Over 3 years of experience in project management and strategic planning
Required Skills:
- Proven experience in strategic planning and business planning
- Fluency in business-level Japanese
- Proficiency in basic PC skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and basic Excel tools such as Pivot)
Preferred Skills:
- Experience working with seniors
- Logical thinking and planning skills
- Strong communication, negotiation, and bargaining skills
- Ability to respond flexibly to changes and coordinate with all parties involved
- Business English
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in the senior market, e-commerce, or related industries may have an advantage in this role.
π° Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: Β₯7,000,000 - Β₯12,000,000 per year (Based on experience level and market standards for similar roles in Japan)
Benefits:
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Retirement benefits
- Employee discounts on Rakuten services
- Opportunities for professional development and growth
Working Hours: Full-time position with standard Japanese working hours (8:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Monday - Friday)
ASSUMPTION: Salary range is estimated based on market standards for similar roles in Japan. Actual salary may vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.
π Applicant Insights
π Company Context
Industry: Rakuten is a global leader in e-commerce, fintech, digital content, and communications, operating in over 30 countries and regions with more than 30,000 employees worldwide.
Company Size: Rakuten has over 10,000 employees, providing a large and diverse work environment.
Founded: 1997, in Tokyo, Japan
Company Description:
- Rakuten is a global technology leader that empowers individuals, communities, businesses, and society through its services.
- The company offers a wide range of services, including e-commerce, fintech, digital content, and communications.
- Rakuten is committed to creating a sustainable and inclusive future for all.
Company Specialties:
- E-commerce (Rakuten Ichiba, Rakuten Books)
- 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
- Artificial Intelligence
Company Website: https://global.rakuten.com/corp/
ASSUMPTION: Rakuten's diverse range of services and global presence offer numerous opportunities for career growth and development.
π Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-level to senior-level position, with opportunities for growth and advancement within the company
Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Marketing Division and collaborates with various internal teams and external partners
Work Arrangement: On-site, full-time position with standard Japanese working hours
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to take on more responsibilities and advance within the Marketing Division or other departments within Rakuten
- Opportunities to work on high-impact projects that address social issues and drive business growth
- Chance to gain experience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and develop skills in strategic planning, project management, and collaboration
ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity to work on socially significant products and contribute to Rakuten's mission of creating a sustainable and inclusive future.
π Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Modern, collaborative workspace with state-of-the-art facilities
Office Location(s): Rakuten Crimson House, 1-14-1 Tamagawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 158-0094, JP
Geographic Context:
- Tokyo is a bustling, multicultural city with a rich history and vibrant culture
- The Setagaya-ku district offers easy access to public transportation, shopping, and dining options
- Rakuten's headquarters is located in a modern, eco-friendly building with a focus on sustainability
Work Schedule: Standard Japanese working hours (8:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Monday - Friday) with occasional overtime as needed
ASSUMPTION: Rakuten's work environment fosters collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, providing an engaging and supportive atmosphere for employees.
πΌ Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screening
- In-person or virtual interviews with hiring managers and team members
- Background check and offer extension
Key Assessment Areas:
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
- Communication and collaboration abilities
- Adaptability and flexibility in a dynamic work environment
- Cultural fit and alignment with Rakuten's values
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
- Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions that focus on your problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills
- Research Rakuten's mission, values, and recent projects to demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding of the company
ATS Keywords: Strategic Planning, Business Planning, Project Management, Senior Market, Marketing Strategies, Data Analysis, Collaboration, Innovation, Social Impact
ASSUMPTION: Rakuten's application process is designed to assess candidates' skills, cultural fit, and potential for growth within the company.
π οΈ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, JIRA)
- Data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Google Analytics, Tableau)
- Collaboration tools (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams)
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be comfortable using common project management, data analysis, and collaboration tools.
π Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Empowerment
- Optimism
- Gratitude
- Integrity
- Perseverance
Work Style:
- Collaborative and team-oriented
- Dynamic and fast-paced
- Focused on innovation and continuous improvement
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you thrive in a dynamic, collaborative work environment?
- Are you passionate about creating socially significant products and driving business growth?
- Do you align with Rakuten's values and commitment to empowerment, optimism, gratitude, integrity, and perseverance?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates who demonstrate a strong cultural fit and alignment with Rakuten's values will be more likely to succeed in this role.
β οΈ Potential Challenges
- Working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with tight deadlines
- Addressing complex business challenges and social issues
- Collaborating with diverse teams and external partners
- Navigating a large, global organization with a wide range of services and departments
ASSUMPTION: These challenges also present opportunities for growth, learning, and making a significant impact on Rakuten's business and social mission.
π Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is unique in its focus on the senior market and Rakuten's mission to create a sustainable and inclusive future
- Compared to other strategic planning roles, this position offers the opportunity to work on high-impact projects with a strong social focus
- Career progression may involve moving into other strategic roles within Rakuten or taking on more responsibilities within the Marketing Division
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should consider their interest in the senior market, social impact, and Rakuten's unique business model when comparing this role to other opportunities.
π Sample Projects
- Developing and executing a marketing campaign to increase user engagement and grow Rakuten Senior's application and health media platforms
- Collaborating with external partners to create innovative solutions for the senior market, such as telehealth services or senior-friendly mobile apps
- Conducting market research and data analysis to identify trends and opportunities in the senior market and inform strategic decision-making
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the strategic, collaborative, and innovative nature of this role.
β Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe the team structure and dynamics within the Marketing Division?
- How does this role contribute to Rakuten's mission and social impact initiatives?
- What opportunities are there for growth and development within this role and the Marketing Division?
- How does Rakuten support work-life balance and employee well-being?
- What is the company's approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion?
ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful, informed questions demonstrates your interest in the role and commitment to Rakuten's mission and values.
π Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through the Rakuten careers portal
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
- Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions that focus on your problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills
- Research Rakuten's mission, values, and recent projects to demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding of the company
- Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your interest and reiterate your qualifications
β οΈ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.