About Company
Rakuten Group, Inc. is a global leader in internet services, empowering individuals and businesses through its diverse portfolio of over 70 services spanning e-commerce, fintech, digital content, and communications. Founded in 1997 by Hiroshi Mikitani, Rakuten’s mission is to empower society through innovation and entrepreneurship, creating a future where everyone can achieve their dreams. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Rakuten has grown into a vast ecosystem, famously known for its ‘Rakuten Ichiba’ e-commerce marketplace, Rakuten Card, Rakuten Mobile, and its professional sports teams. With a strong commitment to its ‘Rakuten Shugi’ principles, which include ‘Always Improve, Always Advance’ and ‘Get Things Done,’ Rakuten fosters a dynamic, international, and innovative work environment where employees are encouraged to think big, challenge the status quo, and contribute to services that touch millions of lives worldwide. Joining Rakuten means becoming part of a forward-thinking organization that prioritizes global impact and technological advancement, committed to driving the digital transformation across various industries.
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Job Description
Rakuten Group, Inc. is seeking an accomplished and highly motivated Project Manager to join our dynamic E-commerce Operations team in Tokyo. In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in driving the successful planning, execution, and delivery of strategic projects across various facets of our rapidly evolving e-commerce platform, including features for Rakuten Ichiba, logistics enhancements, and payment gateway integrations. You will be responsible for overseeing the entire project lifecycle, from initial conceptualization and detailed scope definition through to post-launch evaluation, ensuring all initiatives align meticulously with business objectives, budget constraints, and strict deadlines. Your contributions will directly impact millions of users and significantly influence the operational efficiency and strategic direction of our core e-commerce services.
As a Project Manager, you will serve as the central point of contact, orchestrating and motivating cross-functional teams including product development, engineering, marketing, legal, and operations. Your expertise in agile methodologies (Scrum, Kanban) and traditional project management frameworks will be critical in adapting approaches to best suit the unique needs and complexities of each project. This role demands exceptional communication skills, as you will regularly interface with diverse internal and external stakeholders, provide transparent and timely progress updates, meticulously manage expectations, and proactively identify, analyze, and mitigate potential risks and roadblocks before they impact project timelines. You will be expected to define clear project deliverables, create detailed work plans, allocate resources efficiently, and meticulously track project performance against key metrics and KPIs, employing robust reporting mechanisms to ensure accountability and successful outcomes.
The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the e-commerce landscape, demonstrating a proven track record of managing complex, large-scale projects that have significantly impacted user experience, operational efficiency, or market share. You will thrive in a fast-paced, international environment, demonstrating strong leadership, proactive problem-solving capabilities, and a keen eye for detail and process optimization. This is an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to a world-class e-commerce ecosystem, influencing products and services used by millions daily, and driving the future of online retail in Japan and beyond. Join us in shaping the next generation of internet services and empowering society globally.
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Key Responsibilities
- Lead the planning, execution, and successful delivery of key e-commerce projects from inception to completion.
- Define project scope, goals, deliverables, and resource requirements in collaboration with senior management and stakeholders.
- Develop detailed project plans, timelines, and budgets, and track progress against established milestones.
- Coordinate cross-functional teams, including engineering, product, marketing, and operations, ensuring clear communication and accountability.
- Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks and issues proactively, implementing effective solutions.
- Manage stakeholder expectations, provide regular progress reports, and facilitate effective decision-making.
- Implement and adapt project management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, Hybrid) to optimize project flow and outcomes.
- Conduct post-project evaluations to identify successful elements and lessons learned for future initiatives.
Required Skills
- Minimum 5 years of experience in project management, specifically within the e-commerce or internet services industry.
- Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong understanding of agile methodologies (Scrum, Kanban) and traditional project management principles.
- Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, capable of influencing diverse stakeholders.
- Proficiency in project management software (e.g., Jira, Asana, Microsoft Project).
- Fluent in English (verbal and written) and business-level Japanese (verbal and written).
- Demonstrated ability to identify and resolve complex project issues and risks effectively.
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
Preferred Qualifications
- PMP, CSM, or other relevant project management certifications.
- Experience with large-scale digital product launches or platform migrations.
- Previous experience working in an international or multinational corporate environment.
- Master's degree in a relevant field.
- Familiarity with data analytics tools and methodologies to inform project decisions and measure impact.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous paid time off and national holidays.
- Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP).
- Subsidized cafeteria with healthy and diverse meal options.
- Fitness center access and wellness programs.
- Commuter benefits and employee discounts on Rakuten services.
- Professional development opportunities and training programs.
- Dynamic, international, and inclusive work environment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to click on the application link below to submit their resume and cover letter directly through our careers portal. Please highlight your experience with e-commerce projects and your proficiency in both English and Japanese.
