By Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal has caused a stir with his job offer for the role of Chief of Staff, where the selected candidate will need to pay ₹20 lakh upfront, with no salary for the first year. The money will be donated to Feeding India, a charity aimed at alleviating hunger. While the offer is being framed as a socially responsible initiative, it has triggered a significant backlash over its ethics.
Zomato’s Chief of Staff Role: A Job With Unconventional Terms
The Chief of Staff role at Zomato offers the chance to shape the company’s direction and be involved in projects like Blinkit, District, and Hyperpure. However, the job’s terms—paying ₹20 lakh and receiving no salary for a year—have led to widespread criticism. While it presents a unique opportunity, the financial requirements are raising questions about the inclusivity and fairness of the offer.
A ₹20 Lakh Donation for Charity: How Ethical Is This?
The ₹20 lakh asked by Goyal will be donated to Feeding India, a commendable charity. However, critics argue that this creates a barrier for many qualified candidates, especially those who cannot afford such a large donation. The ethics of requiring candidates to contribute to charity in order to secure a job are being questioned.
Reactions Across Social Media: Backlash and Support
The offer has divided opinion on social media, with some criticizing it as a form of exploitation, while others support the idea of combining business with charitable efforts. Public debate continues to evolve, with many pointing out that such conditions may deter talented individuals from applying.
Corporate Social Responsibility: A New Trend in Hiring?
Zomato’s job offer has sparked a larger conversation about the role of corporate social responsibility in hiring practices. Can companies use recruitment to support social causes, or does it create a conflict of interest? This case sets an important precedent for how businesses integrate social impact into their hiring strategies.
Deepinder Goyal’s job offer has sparked a debate about corporate ethics, fairness, and the integration of philanthropy in business practices. While the charitable initiative behind the offer is admirable, the terms of the job raise valid concerns about accessibility and fairness in hiring. It remains to be seen how this will influence future corporate hiring practices.
