About Company
Rakuten, Inc. is a leading global internet services company, empowering individuals and businesses worldwide through a diverse range of services. Founded in 1997, Rakuten has grown from an online marketplace to a comprehensive ecosystem encompassing e-commerce, fintech, digital content, and communications. With a mission to contribute to society by creating value through innovation and entrepreneurship, Rakuten is dedicated to fostering a more connected and enriched global community. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Rakuten operates across 30 countries and regions, serving over 1.7 billion members globally. Our commitment to ‘Omotenashi’ (Japanese hospitality) and ‘Empowerment’ drives our culture, encouraging every employee to innovate and make a significant impact. Join a dynamic team that is at the forefront of shaping the future of internet services and experience a truly global work environment.
Job Description
Are you an ambitious, driven individual eager to kickstart your career in business development within a global technology powerhouse? Rakuten, Inc. is seeking a passionate and proactive Entry-Level Business Development Associate to join our vibrant team in Tokyo. This is an exceptional opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional to gain hands-on experience in identifying new market opportunities, cultivating strategic partnerships, and contributing directly to the growth of our diverse business portfolio.
As a Business Development Associate, you will work closely with seasoned business development managers, learning the intricacies of market analysis, competitive landscaping, and client engagement. You will support the full lifecycle of business development initiatives, from initial research and lead generation to proposal preparation and performance tracking. This role requires a keen eye for detail, strong analytical capabilities, and excellent communication skills, enabling you to effectively articulate value propositions and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
At Rakuten, we believe in nurturing talent. You will receive comprehensive training and mentorship, providing you with the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed and advance within our organization. We are looking for someone who is curious, resilient, and possesses a strong desire to learn and make a tangible impact. If you thrive in a fast-paced, innovative environment and are ready to contribute to global success, we encourage you to apply. This role offers a unique platform to develop foundational business development skills, expand your professional network, and become an integral part of Rakuten’s mission to empower the world through innovation.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct market research and competitor analysis to identify potential new business opportunities and trends.
- Support senior Business Development Managers in preparing presentations, proposals, and sales materials.
- Assist with lead generation activities, including researching potential clients and initial outreach efforts.
- Maintain and update CRM systems with accurate client information and sales activities.
- Participate in client meetings and calls, taking notes and supporting follow-up actions.
- Collaborate with internal teams (e.g., Marketing, Product, Legal) to ensure seamless execution of business development initiatives.
- Track and report on the progress of various business development projects and campaigns.
- Continuously learn about Rakuten’s diverse range of services and products to effectively articulate their value.
Required Skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Japanese (business level).
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Excel, Word).
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- High level of proactivity, organization, and attention to detail.
- Eagerness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or a related field.
- Previous internship or entry-level experience in a business development, sales, or client-facing role.
- Familiarity with CRM software (e.g., Salesforce).
- Interest in technology, e-commerce, or fintech industries.
Perks & Benefits
- Comprehensive Social Insurance (Health, Pension, Employment)
- Commuting Allowance
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
- Extensive Training and Professional Development Programs
- On-site Cafeteria with subsidized meals
- Childcare Support
- Employee Discount Programs across Rakuten services
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and National Holidays
- Access to Rakuten's global network and diverse career paths
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their application through the provided link. Please ensure your resume highlights relevant experience, skills, and your motivation for joining Rakuten. We look forward to reviewing your application and exploring how you can contribute to our team.