Strategy & Operations Senior Manager, Japan

Whatnot, Inc.

Job Overview

Location

Tokyo, Japan

Job Type

Full-time

Full Job Description

📋 Description

• Lead the strategy and operations for post-purchase experiences in Japan, partnering with Product, Engineering, and Operations teams to deliver scalable, high-quality services for Whatnot’s Japanese users
• Translate operational data and user interaction insights into prioritized roadmaps and initiatives that enhance quality, speed, and scalability of commerce processes
• Own end-to-end execution of cross-functional initiatives aligned with global commerce goals, ensuring alignment, accountability, and measurable outcomes
• Design and implement scalable processes, systems, and operating models to support Whatnot’s growth and evolving user needs in the Japanese market
• Serve as the primary strategic thought partner and Japan representative to senior leadership, providing data-driven recommendations and tradeoffs to inform key business decisions
• Continuously assess operational performance across buyer, seller, trust & risk, fraud, logistics, and payments functions to identify efficiency, resilience, and user experience improvements
• Collaborate closely with the Global Commerce team to implement region-specific adaptations of global initiatives while maintaining alignment with company-wide standards
• Drive operational excellence by identifying inefficiencies and developing solutions that scale with Whatnot’s rapid growth in Japan
• Act as a bridge between local market nuances and global strategy, ensuring cultural and regulatory context informs operational design and execution
• Maintain close proximity to users and product outcomes, prioritizing impact over credit and embracing ambiguity in fast-paced, evolving environments
• Utilize data analysis and reporting tools to inform decisions, with proficiency in SQL and analytics platforms (e.g., Looker, Sigma, Hex) preferred
• Participate in in-person planning and problem-solving sessions at the Tokyo office, as the role requires living within commuting distance of the hub
• Contribute to building a new market presence from the ground up, with no existing playbook, requiring initiative, curiosity, and bias toward action

🎯 Requirements

• 7–10 years of experience in strategy and operations roles (e.g., consulting, finance, General Manager, Operations)
• Proven experience developing and executing scalable, high-quality operations strategies in ambiguous, fast-paced environments
• Demonstrated success leading large, cross-functional initiatives from concept through execution
• Strong analytical judgment with ability to synthesize quantitative and qualitative insights into clear recommendations
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools; experience with SQL and analytics platforms (e.g., Looker, Sigma, Hex) is a plus
• Real understanding of the nuances of the Japanese market

🏖️ Benefits

• Flexible Time off Policy and Company-wide Holidays (including spring and winter breaks)
• Health Insurance options including Medical, Dental, Vision
• ¥140,000 home office setup allowance
• ¥20,750 monthly allowance for cell phone and internet
• ¥69,500 monthly allowance for wellness
• ¥14,000 monthly allowance for commuter expenses
• ¥693,000 annual allowance towards Childcare
• ¥2,772,000 lifetime benefit for family planning (e.g., adoption or fertility expenses)
• 16 weeks of fully paid parental leave + one month gradual return to work (in addition to local statutory leave)
• Pension plans

Skills & Technologies

Spring

Senior

Remote

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Whatnot, Inc.

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About Whatnot, Inc.

Whatnot operates a live-stream marketplace for collectibles, sneakers, trading cards, apparel, and other hobby items. Sellers host real-time auctions and fixed-price shows while buyers bid or purchase through the mobile app. The platform combines live video, integrated payments, and authenticated shipping to reduce fraud. Founded in 2019, the company is headquartered in Los Angeles and has raised multiple venture rounds to expand categories and international markets.

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