Group Manager - Data Center Strategy Office, Infrastructure Services Department (INSD)

The Rakuten Group continues to expand its business, and the data center infrastructure supporting it is evolving rapidly with growing demands for AI/GPU workloads, renewable energy transitions, and increasingly dynamic market conditions.

We are looking for a Group Manager who can drive the strategic and business planning functions within the Data Center Strategy Office, supporting the Office Manager in executing the data center growth strategy while leading and developing a high-performing team.

Develop and drive mid-to-long term growth strategies for the data center business

Lead business model reviews and feasibility studies to support strategic decision-making

Develop and implement strategies for AI/GPU-ready infrastructure capacity in response to evolving market demands

Lead Green/Renewable Energy (RE) strategy and sustainability initiatives

Conduct continuous monitoring of competitors and market trends, and report insights to senior management

Support the Office Manager in developing the overall vision and policies for the data center

Develop and manage annual and mid-term business plans to maximize business performance

Own and manage P&L for the data center business, ensuring financial targets are met

Develop and manage pricing strategies to maintain competitiveness and profitability

Conduct market analysis and benchmarking to inform pricing and investment decisions

Develop and manage demand forecasting models to support capacity planning

Manage inventory planning and allocation to optimize utilization and minimize risk

Coordinate with internal stakeholders to align supply and demand plans

Negotiate and manage contract terms and conditions with key partners and customers

Develop and manage frameworks for colocation and service level agreements

Ensure contract compliance and manage renewals and renegotiations

Participate in vendor and partner selection processes, including management of RFP/RFI activities

Lead, manage, and develop Group members to build a high-performing team

Set clear goals and KPIs for the team and monitor progress

Foster a collaborative and innovative team culture aligned with the organization's mission and vision

Collaborate with new data center opening and expansion projects to ensure strategic alignment

Drive cross-functional collaboration with internal stakeholders including General Affairs, Legal, Procurement, and Finance departments