Associate Agency Development Manager

Rakuten Rewards•Lexington, MA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Rakuten International is a division of Rakuten Group, Inc., a Japanese global technology leader in services that empower individuals, communities, businesses and society. Headquartered in San Mateo, California with more than 4,000 employees worldwide, the Rakuten International business portfolio includes market leaders in e-commerce, digital marketing, advertising, communications and entertainment. We create products and services that provide exceptional value by aligning members and the businesses that want to engage them in a shared community. Rakuten is the most rewarding way to shop, giving millions of members Cash Back when they buy from their favorite brands. As a leading shopping platform, Rakuten partners with thousands of top brands across apparel, beauty and wellness, grocery, travel, on-demand services, subscriptions, and dining, helping members save on everyday purchases. Since 1999, Rakuten members have earned more than $4.6 billion in Cash Back, making it the largest Cash Back platform of its kind. Learn more at Rakuten.com. This position is eligible to work in office: San Francisco, New York, Lexington and Chicago Job Summary: Rakuten Rewards is seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Agency Development Associate Manager to optimize commercial processes and drive revenue growth through strategic partnerships with top affiliate networks and agencies. This role requires strong analytical skills, exceptional relationship building, and the ability to participate in (and occasionally lead) multiple projects simultaneously.

Requirements

Demonstrated success in managing and growing strategic partnerships.
Familiarity with affiliate network platforms, solutions, and tools.
Exceptional negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Self-starter with a strategic mindset and a methodical approach to execution.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM software.
Ability to travel as needed.
Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field.
2-3 years’ of experience in business development, partnerships, or affiliate marketing industry.

Responsibilities

Cultivate and expand strategic relationships with 20+ key affiliate agencies and networks to increase merchant acquisition and revenue metrics for Rakuten Rewards.
Analyze agency and network performance metrics, develop ambitious growth goals, and present annual strategic plans.
Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Marketing, Finance, Product, and Operations teams to develop unique product and pricing solutions that maximize revenue.
Ensure compliance with all company policies, industry regulations, and legal requirements.
Partner with the Commercial Partnerships Manager to provide training and support to the sales team on commercial processes, tools, and technical/commercial challenges.
Collaborate with the Commercial Partnerships Manager to identify and share network solutions that can enhance performance with Rakuten Rewards' Product and Sales teams.
Educate agencies and networks on Rakuten Rewards' solutions, capabilities, and innovations, including reporting, insights, and optimization opportunities via regular connects and webinars.
Represent Rakuten Rewards at prominent affiliate industry events.