Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal’s job posting for the position of Chief of Staff has created a buzz, drawing over 10,000 applications despite its unusual condition: candidates must pay ₹20 lakh in their first year instead of receiving a salary. The announcement, made on X (formerly Twitter), has sparked widespread discussion online.
Diverse Applicant Pool
Goyal categorized applicants into four groups: those who can comfortably afford the ₹20 lakh fee, those who can partially arrange it, those who are eager to apply but lack sufficient funds, and those who genuinely cannot afford the fee. This diverse response highlights that the role’s appeal lies in its potential for personal growth and learning, rather than financial capability alone.
The application window closes today at 6 PM IST, and Goyal has encouraged interested candidates to submit their cover letters before the deadline. He also hinted at upcoming updates, adding to the excitement around the recruitment process.
Social Media Debate
The job posting has ignited debate on social media. Critics argue that the ₹20 lakh fee creates a financial barrier, excluding talented individuals from less privileged backgrounds. Supporters, however, view the overwhelming number of applications as a testament to the opportunity’s appeal, citing the chance to work closely with Goyal and contribute to Zomato’s key initiatives, including Blinkit, Feeding India, and Hyperpure.
Market and Hiring Attention
Meanwhile, Zomato’s shares continue to perform well, trading above their 5-day, 10-day, 20-day, 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day moving averages. As the hiring process progresses, all eyes are on how the company will manage the unprecedented volume of applications to select the right candidate.
This unconventional hiring strategy has made waves in Indian corporate circles, positioning Zomato’s Chief of Staff role as one of the most talked-about opportunities in recent times.
