Description
About Rakuten Mobile
Rakuten Mobile, a part of Rakuten Group, is a leading global mobile network operator that is revolutionizing the telecommunications industry. As a trailblazer in innovative technologies, Rakuten Mobile is at the forefront of delivering cutting-edge mobile solutions. Our mission is to transform mobile communication for consumers and businesses alike, utilizing the latest advancements in 5G, AI, and IoT.
Job Summary
We are seeking a visionary and results-driven Senior Manager for New Business Development to lead our team in identifying, shaping, and executing strategic business opportunities that align with our long-term vision. This individual will be responsible for developing high-impact business cases, launching new initiatives, and orchestrating cross-functional execution to generate growth across both B2B and B2C verticals. The ideal candidate brings deep telecom experience, entrepreneurial agility, and a proven ability to lead complex programs in a dynamic environment.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Define and drive the overall new business development strategy in alignment with Rakuten Mobile objectives.
- Identify white-space growth opportunities by monitoring global telecom and digital trends.
- Translate long-term corporate vision into actionable roadmaps and project pipelines.
New Business Planning & Incubation
Lead ideation, validation, and structuring of new business models (B2C, B2B, enterprise).Identify and develop new services using data analyticsOversee feasibility studies, competitive benchmarking, and go-to-market strategies.Develop business cases including TAM / SAM analysis, pricing models, P&L forecasts, and KPIs.Cross-functional Program Execution
Drive cross-organizational collaboration with engineering, network, product, finance, legal, sales, and marketing teams.Ensure timely execution of pilots, prototypes, and full-scale launches.Establish governance models, risk mitigation frameworks, and stage-gate reviews for innovation pipeline.Team Development and Leadership
Build, mentor, and inspire a high-performing, multidisciplinary business innovation team.Provide strategic guidance and oversight to mid-level managers and business producers.Champion a culture of agility, accountability, and continuous learning.Stakeholder Management
Influence and engage executive stakeholders and board-level sponsors to align on priorities.Represent the business in leadership forums, investor meetings, and strategic partnerships.Market & Ecosystem Development
Lead strategic partnerships, JV discussions, and M&A evaluations aligned with growth goals.Foster innovation through collaboration with Rakuten Group companies and with external ecosystems – startups, universities, and industry bodies.Represent the company in external forums, driving brand equity and thought leadership.Qualifications and Experience
Fluent in both English and Japanese20+ years of progressive experience in strategy, business development, and innovation leadership.Experience of working across B2C, B2B, Enterprise verticals for new product and business developmentDemonstrated success in launching and scaling new ventures and B2B / B2C products, preferably in telecom, technology, or digital services.Deep expertise in strategic planning, financial modeling, and data-driven decision making.Extensive experience leading cross-functional teams including international members and working in matrix organizations.Fluent in English and Japanese (Business level or native in both preferred).MBA or equivalent degree in Business, Engineering, Economics, or related field (preferred).Previous experience in management consulting or corporate strategy.Experience of driving end to end projects from ideation till executionKey Competencies
Strategic foresight and market acumenInnovation management and execution disciplineFinancial and commercial modeling expertiseExecutive stakeholder influence and communicationTeam building and leadership across culturesOperational excellence and program managementLanguages :
English (Overall - 3 - Advanced), Japanese (Overall - 3 - Advanced)