A Bullish Storyline In Amazon, Apple And Facebook Job Openings

Citi analysts have a keen strategy to look at the tech giant's job listings to get a sense of what to expect in the near future. Through the Citi Internet Jobs report, the firm utilizes a method of analysis that tracks internal hires and "infer what the companies may be planning with certain hires."

Here's a look at these recent job openings and Citi's take on them.

Facebook IncFB/WhatsApp Associate General Counsel, Commercial - Job Description: The AGC, Commercial position will lead a team that will be responsible for developing and launching commercial messaging and other commercial efforts on WhatsApp

Citi's Take: With Facebook looking to monetize its messaging app but providing little commentary surrounding WhatsApp's monetization potential, Citi believes this job posting will look to capitalize on WhatsApp 1 billion+ mobile active users through a customer service-like advertising solution as opposed to a more traditional consumer-facing advertising model.

Facebook Client Solutions Manager, Restaurants – Description: The Client Solutions Manager will establish and strengthen key client relationships with a focus on driving revenue, advertiser education & advertiser satisfaction [within the restaurant vertical]

Citi's Take: "This job positing is consistent with the news last week that Facebook is rolling out the ability for businesses with pages on Facebook to enable ordering, reservations, bookings, ticketing and other similar actions on Facebook pages."

Restaurants will be a key element in this strategy as Facebook looks to be a one-stop shop for users. Facebook is working with Delivery.com to enable these capabilities.

Netflix, Inc., NFLX Director, Bus. Dev., Greater China – Description: This position will be responsible for managing partnerships with ISPs, MNOs and PayTV operators in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan, while also finding new methods of driving membership and viewing for Netflix.

Citi's Take: Over the past year, Netflix's management language and strategy regarding China has shifted. The company has pivoted from distribution via its own platform to one that consists of licensing existing content to online service providers in China.

"Though the regulatory environment remains challenging, we are encouraged to see this job posting as it highlights NFLX's continued intention of building out its own business in China," the firm said.

Amazon.com, Inc. AMZN Senior Bus. Dev., International Video Expansion - Description: Amazon is looking for an experienced digital media executive who will develop new digital video business opportunities and be responsible for creating and growing innovative new projects for the Amazon Channels business.

Citi's Take: "Given the increasing competition in the OTT space," the analysts wrote, "Amazon is improving its offerings (via content spend and additional partnerships), while also pushing international expansion. Job postings like this help highlight Amazon's intention to become a more significant force in the online video space, which could provide some competition for Netflix both for subscribers and content rights."