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About the Role

Rakuten Mobile is seeking a visionary Device Strategy Lead to transform its hardware ecosystem. As devices are a primary driver for customer acquisition and retention in the Japanese market, you will be responsible for defining and executing a comprehensive device strategy. This role requires a blend of commercial acumen, hardware expertise, and deep OEM relationships to drive SIM-led growth, maximize customer lifetime value, and enhance competitive positioning.

Responsibilities

Define and execute the end-to-end strategy for smartphones, IoT, wearables, and accessories.
Build a differentiated product roadmap based on market trends and consumer insights to maximize SIM acquisition.
Manage high-level relationships with global/local OEMs.
Lead negotiations on pricing, marketing funds, and exclusivity to secure favorable terms and ensure optimal inventory turnover.
Design innovative monetization models, including installment plans, trade-in programs, and device-as-a-service (DaaS).
Balance device subsidies with profitability and churn reduction.
Partner with Marketing, Sales, and Technical teams to ensure successful campaign execution, feature optimization (e.g., 5G, eSIM), and seamless customer experience.
Serve as the internal authority on hardware and device trends, advising the executive team on long-term strategic investments.

Requirements

15–20 years in device-led business, product management, or commercial strategy within a major telco operator or a Tier-1 global OEM (e.g., Samsung, Motorola, Apple, Sony).
Deep understanding of the hardware lifecycle, from roadmap planning and supply chain management to go-to-market execution.
Proven success in driving device-led subscriber acquisition and managing complex monetization programs (subsidies, financing, etc.).
Strong existing relationships with global smartphone manufacturers and Japanese distribution partners.
Demonstrated ability to navigate the complexities of the Japanese telecom market, including regulatory environments and consumer trends.
Fluency in English is required.
Business-level Japanese is highly preferred.
MBA or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a relevant field.
Experience managing large-scale P&L for device portfolios.
Strategic vision for emerging hardware trends (5G-enabled IoT, wearables, connected home).
Exceptional negotiation and influencing skills at the senior leadership level.
TOEIC score of 600 or equivalent English proficiency/skills.

Skills

Device Strategy
Product Management
Commercial Strategy
OEM Partnership Management
Supply Chain Management
Monetization Models
Cross-Functional Leadership
Hardware Trends Analysis
Negotiation
Influencing Skills
Japanese Market Navigation
English Fluency
Business-Level Japanese

Location

Tokyo, Japan

Work Type

Full-time
Regular Employee

Experience Level

15-20 years

Education Level

MBA or Master's degree

Salary/Compensations

JPY300,000 ~ (Monthly salary: JPY300,000 ~ Breakdown: Base salary JPY 227,848 + fixed overtime pay for 40 hours JPY 72,152)

Benefits

Cafeteria (breakfast, lunch, dinner generally free)
Employee Stock Ownership Plan
English learning support
Employees' Pension Insurance
Health Insurance
Workers' Accident Compensation Insurance
Employment Insurance
Commuting allowance

About the Company

Rakuten Mobile, a part of Rakuten Group, is a global leader revolutionizing the telecommunications industry.
As a trailblazer in cloud-native network technology, we are at the forefront of delivering cutting-edge mobile solutions.
Our mission is to transform mobile communication for consumers and businesses alike, leveraging the latest advancements in 5G, AI, and IoT.
Rakuten Mobile, Inc. aims for all employees to achieve a TOEIC score of 800 or higher, in line with Rakuten Group, Inc.'s Englishnization policy.
Some people say Rakuten is reckless in trying to enter the mobile communications business. However, innovation is realized if we succeed when something seems impossible.
At Rakuten, we think the world changes when we achieve such changes. Because our history has always been a series of innovations since our establishment.
Launching a communication carrier is an opportunity that we have once in our lives.
Crack open the current communication industry. Blow new wind into life. Why not create innovation with us? Why not do something big?