This opening is for the Operations Planning Section, one of the four sections within the Procurement Operations Supervisory Department.
The Operations Planning Section is a dynamic, cross-functional team that plays a central role in “designing” standardization for procurement operations across the Rakuten Group, “embedding” it with stakeholders, and “establishing and driving” it as part of ongoing operations.
The Operations Planning Section aims to build an operating foundation that functions stably across the entire group by taking end-to-end ownership of the design, rollout, and operational execution of procurement operations standardization.
Because each business and each company has different circumstances, achieving both procurement process standardization and stronger governance requires more than simply rolling out rules-it demands strong drive to move operations forward while staying close to stakeholders. To date, the Operations Planning Section has supported operational adoption by maintaining close communication with frontline teams and moving initiatives forward with a strong sense of speed.
Looking ahead, with an expansion of scope and stakeholders in mind, we aim to strengthen our talent pipeline by hiring individuals who can drive planning and execution now and grow into future team leaders.
Appeal of the business/organizational phase
We are in the launch-to-expansion phase of standardizing and consolidating procurement processes across the entire group. While a certain set of rules and mechanisms is already being put in place, the real work is just beginning in terms of expanding the scope (target areas and companies) and further enhancing operational maturity. Rather than simply “running what has already been decided,” a key feature of this position is the opportunity to proactively engage in growing the framework and shaping what comes next.
Appeal of autonomy and organizational culture
You will not only execute predetermined initiatives, but also take end-to-end ownership-from identifying issues and designing solutions, to coordinating with stakeholders and driving operational adoption. While roles and responsibilities are clearly defined, individuals are given substantial autonomy, providing an environment where you can turn ideas (“this would be better”) into reality by involving relevant stakeholders. There are also opportunities to prepare approval materials for senior management and to report directly, allowing you to work with a perspective close to leadership.
In addition, the culture emphasizes speed and execution. While operating on the premise of compliance, rules, and governance, the team values going beyond desk-based design and translating it into operations that actually work in the field.
Career steps (skills gained and career paths)
The experience gained in this position is not limited to a typical “procurement professional” or “purchasing specialist.” While using procurement as an entry point, you will be involved in cross-group business process design and operational improvement. Specifically, you can gain experience in:
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Designing and improving end-to-end business operations, including procurement processes
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Structurally reviewing operations based on KPIs and operational data
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Serving a BizOps-like role that connects business units, corporate functions, and senior management
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Supporting decision-making from a management perspective, premised on balancing governance/internal controls with execution
As a result, future career options may include:
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Leader/manager roles in operations improvement or the BizOps domain
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Cross-functional planning and execution roles beyond procurement
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“Procurement/operations planning close to management,” in collaboration with corporate planning/strategy functions
A major feature of this position is that it enables career development not constrained by the word “procurement,” allowing you to broaden your next steps into roles that support the business and management through system-building and business transformation.