Zomato CEO Seeks Chief of Staff with Rs 20 Lakh Charge

Zomato's job offer for the Chief of Staff role, based at the company’s headquarters in Gurugram, is specifically designed for people eager to learn and develop professionally. In a detailed LinkedIn post, CEO Goyal elaborated that the ideal candidate should have qualities such as "hunger," "empathy," and "common sense," but not necessarily excessive experience or a sense of entitlement.

“This position isn’t about building your resume or earning financial rewards,” Goyal said. “It’s for those who wish to learn and help shape the future of Zomato, Blinkit, Hyperpure, and Feeding India.”

The Rs 20 lakh fee, which candidates are required to contribute directly to Feeding India — a Zomato-backed non-profit — has recently generated a controversy. Goyal clarified that the fee is intended to attract individuals inspired by learning rather than profit.

While the 1st year does not come with a salary, Zomato will donate Rs 50 lakh to a charity chosen by the candidate, an amount roughly equivalent to the typical yearly salary for this role. Starting from the 2nd year, the Chief of Staff will earn a competitive salary of over Rs 50 lakh per annum. To apply, candidates must submit a 200-word cover letter directly to the CEO, with no resume attached. The selection process will completely be based on the content of the letter.

“This role is a fast-track learning experience,” Goyal stated, likening it to an intensive real-world management course.

The announcement has attracted both admiration and criticism. Supporters view it as a great chance to learn from a leading entrepreneur, particularly for those passionate about the consumer tech industry. However, critics argue that the Rs 20 lakh fee makes the role inaccessible to many, effectively limiting it to the people with  financial resources.

By positioning the Chief of Staff role as a learning experience rather than a conventional job, CEO Goyal intends to challenge traditional ideas of professional development in corporate India.

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