Rakuten Establishes Rakuten Tech Center Europe in Paris, Strengthening European Technical Presence

- New organization underscores commitment to innovation and technological leadership

Rakuten Group, Inc. announced the establishment of Rakuten Tech Center Europe, a new tech entity committed to fostering innovation, enhancing collaboration and solidifying the company’s technological leadership within the European market. The new center officially commenced operations on April 1, 2025, with a launch event held at its office in the heart of Paris.

A hub for tech expertise in the heart of Europe
Rakuten Tech Center Europe serves as a hub in the region, uniting a diverse and highly skilled team of over 50 employees. Members encompass a wide range of expertise, including specialists in AI, data center operations, cloud computing, platform development, IT support - as well as members of Rakuten Institute of Technology, the company’s incubation center for AI research and other cutting-edge technologies.

The center supports advancements across various technological domains and contributes to Rakuten’s regional and global innovation initiatives. The team occupies a modern, state-of-the-art shared office space, co-located with Rakuten France, facilitating the seamless integration of innovative solutions into Rakuten’s European operations.

The leadership of Rakuten Tech Center Europe will be entrusted to four directors, Naojiro Hisada, Executive Officer of Rakuten Group, Zoran Stejic, Head of Europe AI & Data, Fergal Downey, Fellow of Rakuten Group, and Kieran Lynch, Head of Europe Legal and Compliance. Zoran Stejic will also assume the role of President of the new entity, providing strategic direction and ensuring the center’s alignment with Rakuten’s overarching vision for technological advancement.

Zoran Stejic, Head of Europe AI & Data and President of Rakuten Tech Center Europe, commented, “By establishing a dedicated hub for technological excellence in the heart of Europe, we are reinforcing our commitment to driving transformative advancements and fostering collaboration among our tech experts in the region. This center will serve as a magnet for top talent, enabling us to develop and deliver innovative solutions that address the unique challenges and opportunities within the European market and beyond.”

13 years after the formation of Rakuten’s tech division in Europe and with members in multiple European countries, the launch of Rakuten Tech Center Europe represents a significant milestone, underscoring the company’s unwavering commitment to innovation and empowerment within the European landscape.

*Please note that the information contained in press releases is current as of the date of release.