Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal recently announced an unconventional job opening for the position of Chief of Staff at the company’s headquarters in Gurugram. The role, which offers no salary in the first year, also requires the selected candidate to donate ₹20 lakh to Feeding India, Zomato’s non-profit initiative.

In a detailed LinkedIn post, Goyal explained that the position is designed for individuals eager to learn and grow, emphasizing traits like "hunger," "empathy," and "common sense" over prior experience or entitlement.

"This is not about resume building or financial rewards," Goyal clarified. "It’s an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Zomato, Blinkit, Hyperpure, and Feeding India."

The ₹20 lakh donation, he stated, is meant to ensure applicants are driven by the learning experience rather than financial benefits. Despite the absence of a salary in the first year, Zomato promises to donate ₹50 lakh to a charity chosen by the selected candidate, equivalent to a typical annual compensation for such a role. From the second year onward, the Chief of Staff will receive a competitive salary exceeding ₹50 lakh.

Applications are being accepted through a unique process: candidates must submit a 200-word cover letter directly to Goyal, without attaching a resume. The selection will focus entirely on the quality of the letter.

Goyal likened the position to an intensive, real-world management program. "This is a fast-track learning opportunity for those passionate about building the future of consumer tech in India," he noted.

The announcement has sparked debate. While some view the role as a transformative chance to learn from a leading entrepreneur, critics argue that the ₹20 lakh requirement restricts the opportunity to individuals with substantial financial resources.

By redefining the position as a learning-centric opportunity, Goyal appears to be challenging traditional corporate growth paths and encouraging a rethink of professional development in India.