Take the first steps of your career in a creative, dynamic and culturally diverse environment.
INKOMPASS is a paid internship program offered by Philip Morris International in Japan. Work on real business projects, receive mentorship from industry experts, and accelerate your growth in an innovative, collaborative environment.
High‑performing interns may be considered for a full‑time Graduate Trainee role upon graduation, giving you a solid foundation and a head start in your long‑term career.
Commercial Operations
Learn how commercial strategies come to life through direct and indirect sales channels, capability building, and service delivery. You'll support projects that help improve customer experience while contributing to nationwide sales execution
Communications
Data Insights & Analytics
Work with real consumer trends, analyze behaviors, and generate insights that shape major business priorities in Japan. From identifying emerging patterns to supporting big strategic projects, you'll help uncover what consumers truly need—and how the business should respond.
Digital Transformation
Join the team responsible for driving enterprise-wide digital transformation—from improving platforms and optimizing digital touchpoints, to enabling data-driven strategy. You’ll see firsthand how digital innovation accelerates our smoke‑free mission.
Finance
You’ll dive into real business data, create insights that guide strategic decisions, and support initiatives that enhance operational excellence. Partner with cross‑functional teams to ensure financial integrity and contribute to long‑term success.
Marketing
Work on long-term brand strategies, digital-first product initiatives, and innovation projects. You’ll use consumer insights to develop engaging campaigns, strengthen brand relevance, and support our efforts to grow market share in Japan.
People & Culture
From hiring and onboarding to employee experience, development, and engagement, you’ll help shape what it means to work at PM Japan. Explore how strategic talent management and organizational culture come together to create a thriving workplace.
Procurement
Work with global and local suppliers to source the materials and services that enable the business, ensuring quality, value, and responsible sourcing. You’ll support projects that optimize costs, strengthen supply resilience, and drive innovation that contributes to Japan’s smoke‑free future.
Supply Chain & Logistics Operations
Operations Customer Service (otherwise known as “Supply Chain & Logistics”) ensures high-quality products are delivered smoothly and efficiently across Japan. You’ll support projects in supply planning, logistics optimization, and operations excellence while learning how global operations connect to local markets.
Ready to join us?
- Are currently enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s degree program and will graduate in Fall 2027 or Spring 2028.
- Are eligible to work in Japan and are fluent in business English and Japanese.
- Are a strong communicator, have a growth mindset, and a passion for learning.
- Can be physically present in Japan and report onsite at the designated office location throughout the entire internship period, including the On-Ground Assessment day.
Click the Apply button below to view the full job description. Be sure to read it before finalizing your application.
The selection process
Step 1: Application
Tips to apply:
- Create a CV that highlights your strengths and experiences.
- Complete all sections of your application so our recruitment team can review you profile and contact you easily.
Step 2: Interview and assessment process
- First, you´ll be invited to an AI-assisted interview, Phoebe, to assess your communication, team-building and problem solving skills.
- Next, you´ll move on to an online assessment (SHL) to further evaluate your analytical skills.
After successfully completing the digital interview and online assessment, you’ll be invited to our On-Ground Assessment Day (OGA). During this session, you’ll work on group business cases, take part in a competency-based interview with PMI experts, and connect with fellow candidates.
Tips for the assessment:
- Research the track you’re applying for and be ready to share your motivation and suitability.
- For online interviews and assessments, choose a quiet, distraction-free space to help you focus.
Step 3: Internship Offer and Onboarding
Tips for onboarding:
- Carefully review your offer and onboarding materials
- Ask any questions - starting something new should feel exciting, not confusing!
- Get ready to make the most of your INKOMPASS experience.
Key dates and deadlines
| Dates | Activity |
| March 16, 2026–May 31, 2026 | Applications open |
| Digital interviews and online assessment | If you meet the application criteria, you’ll be invited to complete a digital interview right after submitting your application. Rock your interview, and if you advance, you’ll move on to the SHL assessment. Remember, you have up to seven days to complete each step—but don’t miss your deadline! |
| July 1, 2026 | On-Ground Assessment (OGA) |
| July 2026 | Offer extension |
| August 17-September 11, 2026 | INKOMPASS internship period |
Important Notice: Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is used at the virtual interview stage to assist our talent acquisition team in evaluating candidate responses. All decisions regarding your application involve human review in addition to any AI assessment, in compliance with Japan privacy and employment regulations.
Join our Information Sessions
We’re hosting six sessions — some in Japanese, some in English, and some designed for different time zones. Choose the session that works best for you and register using the links below!
Dates | Language | Join via |
March 18, 2026 (Wed) 13:30 – 15:00 (JST) | Japanese | Type Shukatsu Please register through the Philip Morris Japan event page. |
April 9, 2026 (Thu) 17:00 – 18:30 (JST) | English | |
April 23, 2026 (Thu) 17:00 – 18:30 (JST) | Japanese | |
April 14, 2026 (Tue) 17:00 – 18:30 (JST) | Japanese | Biz Reach Campus / CFN Online / Career Tasu Global Please register through the Philip Morris Japan event page. |
May 11, 2026 (Mon) 17:00 – 18:30 (JST) | English |
Guided by Mentors. Supported by Peers.
Tomomi Yokayama, P&C Manager
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply?
Students who are legally eligible to work in Japan without a visa sponsorship.
What year of study must I be in to apply?
You should be a student in an undergraduate or graduate program graduating in Fall 2027 or Spring 2028.
Do I need to physically attend the On-Ground Assessment?
Yes, we are looking forward to seeing you in person on that day.
Do I need to stay in Japan during the INKOMPASS program?
Yes, you must be in Japan for the entire duration of the program.
Must I be based in office locations?
Yes — you must be able to report onsite at the designated office location as required by the role.
What are the language requirements?
Fluency in both Japanese and English is required.
Can I choose my department or project?
Interns are matched to teams based on business needs, skills, and interests expressed during the selection process.
Do I need previous internship(s) or work experience(s) to apply?
No, previous experience is not required. We’re looking for students who are eager to learn, open-minded, and strong team players.
Yes, all INKOMPASS internships are paid hourly. For more details, please refer to the job description.
What benefits are offered to INKOMPASS interns?
In addition to paid work experience, INKOMPASS interns receive Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance (Workers’ Compensation Insurance) and commutation reimbursement. They also benefit from mentorship, professional development opportunities, and the chance to work on meaningful real-life projects.
Will equipment be provided for remote work?
Yes, a company laptop will be provided during the internship period. Interns are expected to have a stable internet connection when working remotely.
Will I receive training or support as an intern?
Yes! At Philip Morris International, development is an essential part of your career journey. All interns receive onboarding, mentorship, and continuous support from their teams and managers.
What happens after the internship?
High-performing interns may be considered for full-time roles after graduation, depending on business needs and openings.
During the first two years, you will be placed in a trainee role where you may rotate between functions to develop a well‑rounded understanding of our business.
Can I apply if I was an INKOMPASS intern before?
No, you cannot. Each INKOMPASS intern may only join the program once.
Can I reapply if I wasn’t selected previously?
Yes, you can apply again in a future cycle even if you’ve applied before.
The internship is a full‑time program and is primarily onsite to support effective collaboration and learning. Remote work may be allowed depending on team needs, events, or specific role requirements. Further details will be shared after placement.
Are the working hours fixed?
Yes, working hours are generally fixed as stated in the job description. Any exceptions must be discussed in advance with the team.
What happens if I need to skip a day due to my university schedule?
Academic commitments should be the top priority for students. Please share your schedule with us so we can discuss it together.
Is full attendance required throughout the internship?
The internship is designed as a full-time program. However, we understand academic commitments may arise. Please inform us in advance so we can discuss it on a case-by-case basis.
Is there a dress code?
Our office follows a business casual dress code. More details will be shared during onboarding.