A career at Square Japan

1.    What does Square do?

Square is a technology company that builds hardware, software and financial services tools that makes doing business easier for sellers around the world. We started as a point-of-sale (POS) system allowing any seller to accept credit cards, and have expanded into payment processing, business analytics, and financial services. Square’s integrated ecosystem simplifies the complexities of running a business, enabling entrepreneurs and small business owners to focus on growth and innovation.

Today, we are a trusted partner to sellers of all sizes – large, enterprise-scale businesses with complex operations, sellers just starting, as well as businesses who began selling with Square and have grown larger over time. As our sellers grow, so do our products and solutions. 

Square stands out due to its versatility and ease of use. Our solutions allow businesses to accept payments in multiple ways, whether in-person, online, or remotely, with minimal setup time and no hidden fees. Our hardware options, such as the Square Reader, Terminal, and Register, cater to various business needs, from small mobile setups to fully integrated retail environments. Additionally, Square provides advanced features like real-time analytics, inventory management, and customer loyalty programs, all of which are accessible through a single, intuitive platform.

What is the opportunity for Square in Japan?

In Japan, Square has a significant opportunity as the country transitions towards a cashless society. The Japanese government has set ambitious targets for cashless payment adoption, aiming to increase the cashless payment ratio to around 40% by 2025 and ultimately reach 80% in the future. Square's ecosystem supports the diverse needs of Japanese businesses, from retail stores to restaurants, beauty salons and professional service providers. We’ve built features like integrated online stores, remote payment options, and seamless third-party app integrations to help businesses. This flexibility allows businesses to manage all aspects of their operations from a single platform, making it easier to navigate the complexities of a cashless economy. 

As Japan continues to embrace digital transformation, Square is well-positioned to support businesses in their journey towards a more cashless and efficient future. The company's innovative products and commitment to customer success make it a key player in shaping the future of commerce in Japan.

2. Tell me a bit about your background and what brought you to Square.

My career has spanned various industries and regions, focusing on localisation, enabling customer growth, and fostering collaboration. I began my professional journey at Citizen Watch, where I focused on customising products for the Asian market and later led sales and marketing efforts in Singapore and across the Southeast Asia region. This role provided me with deep insights into understanding and tailoring solutions to local market needs.

I then joined Amazon Japan as a Brand Consultant, helping international brands develop go-to-market strategies for Japan. My work involved crafting culturally sensitive approaches that enabled these brands to succeed in the Japanese market. Following this, I served as the Regional Head of Business Development for North Asia at Agoda, overseeing new hotel development in Japan and Korea. This experience further honed my skills in market expansion and building strong partnerships.

I was drawn to Square because of its mission to democratise financial services and support business growth through innovative technology. The company's focus on creating seamless, integrated solutions for a wide range of businesses resonated with my passion for enabling companies to succeed in diverse markets. Square's commitment to continuous innovation and customer-centricity excites me, as it aligns perfectly with my professional values. What keeps me here is the dynamic culture and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the growth and transformation of Japanese businesses.

3. How is the Sales team in Japan structured? 

The Sales team at Square Japan is organized into two primary groups: the Account Executive team and the Account Management team. The Account Executive is dedicated to acquiring new sellers and expanding our customer base, allowing us to reach a wider audience. Account Management is focusing on nurturing and expanding relationships with existing accounts, ensuring that our customers maximise the benefits of our offerings.

Our team works closely together, sharing market insights, strategies, and best practices. We cater to a diverse range of customers, from small local businesses to larger enterprises, across various sectors such as retail, restaurant, and service providers. Our goal is to provide customized solutions that address the specific needs of each client, helping them streamline their operations and grow their businesses.

Who are you looking for to join your team? 

There are a few characteristics that I have found make someone successful at Square and that I look for when interviewing candidates to join the team. They include:

Proactive and ownership-driven: We seek individuals who take initiative and are proactive in identifying opportunities and solving problems. Account Executives should be self-starters capable of driving projects and making decisions autonomously.

Innovative and curious: In our fast-paced and ever-evolving market, we value those who are curious and eager to explore new strategies. An innovative mindset is essential for experimenting with different approaches and staying ahead of market trends.

Problem solvers and detail-oriented: Our customers face diverse challenges, from operational inefficiencies to new market trends. We need Account Executives who can dive deep into the details, identify real pain points, and craft comprehensive solutions.

Fast-moving: The dynamic nature of our industry requires quick thinking and swift execution. We look for individuals who can manage multiple priorities efficiently and adapt to changing circumstances.

Customer-centric and empathetic: A customer-first approach is paramount. We seek empathetic individuals who understand and prioritize our clients' needs, delivering exceptional service and support.

We are looking for talented individuals who embody these qualities and are passionate about contributing to the success of our customers and the growth of Square Japan.

4. Why is now the right time for someone to join Square in Japan? 

It’s an exciting time to join the Square team in Japan as the country rapidly transitions towards a more digital and cashless economy. With a growing emphasis on digital payments and e-commerce, Square is at the forefront of providing the tools and solutions businesses need to thrive in this evolving landscape. We are investing heavily in new products and services tailored to the Japanese market, offering a unique opportunity for individuals to be part of this transformation.

I believe Square is more than just a company; it's a movement towards empowering businesses and fostering innovation. By joining us, you'll be part of a team that values creativity, collaboration, and customer-centric solutions. You'll have the chance to work on cutting-edge technology, solve real-world problems, and make a tangible impact on the success of businesses in Japan. It's an opportunity to grow your career, contribute to a meaningful mission, and be at the forefront of a significant market shift. If this sounds like you, please get in touch!