Mickey Mikitani is the founder and CEO of Rakuten, one of Japan's largest e-commerce retailers. Under his visionary leadership, Rakuten has expanded globally and diversified its services, becoming a significant player in the e-commerce and technology industry. Mikitani's bold decisions, such as implementing "Englishnization" within the company, have fostered a culture of innovation, risk-taking, and global ambition.
Who is the CEO of Rakuten?
Born in Kobe, Japan, Mickey Mikitani pursued his education at Hitotsubashi University in Tokyo and later earned his MBA from Harvard Business School. Before founding Rakuten, Mikitani started his career in investment banking and later established his own consulting group, Crimson Group. In 1997, he founded MDM, Inc., which launched Rakuten Ichiba in Japan, later renamed Rakuten, Inc. Under his leadership, Rakuten expanded globally, acquiring several overseas companies and becoming one of Japan's largest e-commerce retailers. Mikitani has received numerous honors and awards, including the HBS Alumni Achievement Award and the Legion of Honour from the French government. He has also made significant contributions to the global e-commerce industry through strategic moves such as launching a $5.5 billion mobile service and securing over $2 billion in investments from major global companies like Tencent, Japan Post Holdings, and Walmart. Mikitani's decision to make English the official internal language at Rakuten highlights his focus on internationalizing the company and preparing it for global competition.
Work History
- Chairman and CEO of Rakuten, Inc.: February 1, 1997 - present
- Founder and CEO of MDM, Inc.: February 1, 1997 - present
- Investment banking: years not specified
- Founder and CEO of Crimson Group: years not specified
Education History
Mickey Mikitani's educational background includes earning his MBA from the prestigious Harvard Business School between 1991 and 1993, where he studied business. Prior to attending Harvard, Mikitani completed his undergraduate studies at Hitotsubashi University in Tokyo, Japan. This strong foundation in business and management has undoubtedly contributed to his success as an entrepreneur and leader in the e-commerce industry.
When did Mickey Mikitani join Rakuten?
Mickey Mikitani is the founder of Rakuten, Inc., and has held the position of Chairman and CEO since the company's inception in 1997. As of now, Mikitani has been leading Rakuten for over two decades, demonstrating his dedication and commitment to the company's growth and success in the e-commerce industry.