Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal’s latest job listing for a Chief of Staff role has set the internet abuzz—but not for reasons you’d expect. The job promises unparalleled learning opportunities, likened to a “10x better” experience than a two-year MBA at a top management institute. The catch? You pay ₹20 lakh upfront for the privilege of working for free during the first year.\
Update: I am looking for a chief of staff for myself. pic.twitter.com/R4XPp3CefJ
— Deepinder Goyal (@deepigoyal) November 20, 2024
This unconventional offer, announced via a two-page document shared on Goyal’s X (formerly Twitter) account, has left social media users scratching their heads and sharpening their wit. As memes and quirky takes flood the internet, it seems the job’s “unattractive” terms are making headlines more than the role itself.
What’s on the Job Plate?
Goyal’s post describes the role as being based at Zomato’s Gurgaon headquarters. The Chief of Staff will work directly with him, assisting in shaping the future of Zomato and its allied companies. However, unlike traditional job listings boasting plush perks, this one boldly declares:
- No salary for the first year
- An upfront payment of ₹20 lakh
Goyal assures applicants that the experience would be worth more than a pricey MBA, but netizens aren’t quite convinced.
A Buffet of Memes and Comments
The announcement has unleashed a storm of creativity online. Some users speculated it might be a clever marketing ploy, while others couldn’t resist poking fun.
Bhai @Swiggy this is the right opportunity to get your person into Zomato. Fund his or her 20L payment and also pay the person 50L pa. Fully updated info about all that Zomato owns right on ur desk daily morning. Totally worth it. 😉 https://t.co/WytwWpetzW
— Cycle Chain Shankar (@dakuwithchaku) November 20, 2024
HUGE UPDATE: I GOT THE JOB GUYS
— Ankur Bagchi (@JustAnkurBagchi) November 20, 2024
just transferred the money, can't wait to start https://t.co/Co6Jau6p0h pic.twitter.com/Wgezd8jnIb
i was the chief of staff who got fired after the first year. you will be my replacement. my first task was to redesign the zomato logo – i actually really think i did a great job, ngl
— keshav (@keshavchan) November 20, 2024
pro tip: don't order from swiggy when the ceo sits in front of your desk https://t.co/lRmVSM1wcL pic.twitter.com/3TWvP51xNP
It is called scam if unknown company offered the same thing. https://t.co/U5IVnPaIbf
— Lal Chand Bisu (@lcbisu) November 21, 2024
https://t.co/JwmS9ULfBF pic.twitter.com/4jpTrDAVbD
— Ramesh Srivats (@rameshsrivats) November 21, 2024
Here’s an idea
— VL (@_ilovemomos) November 21, 2024
Y1 – Get a loan of 20 lacs, apply to the role, which will be donated to Mr Goyal’s trust
Y2 – Register a trust and keep saying it’s my favourite to Mr Goyal
Y3 – Get 50 lacs from Mr Goyal donated to the fav trust and get the hell out of there. https://t.co/059hJrwcmy pic.twitter.com/BTolrFtuL6
Live scenes from the Zomato HQ: https://t.co/34s5B96CrD pic.twitter.com/3Fs3H6pucx
— billa bhadwa (@IndieKnopfler) November 20, 2024
Ex employee explain deepinder goyal's job opportunity in simple terms.. https://t.co/JWb1tvDUOo pic.twitter.com/xhiXmscfSm
— Ipul 😹 (@gujjuallrounder) November 21, 2024
One user quipped, “Bhai Swiggy, this is your chance! Sponsor someone to infiltrate Zomato and bring back the secrets.” Another chimed in, “I’d pay ₹20 lakh only if the job includes free biryani for life.”
A particularly witty comment read, “Zomato’s logo is red for a reason—it’s the color of the flags they’re raising with this offer!”
Swiggy Joins the Banter
The Swiggy-Zomato rivalry fueled another layer of hilarity. A tweet suggested Swiggy fund an undercover agent to bag the role, collect insider info, and report back. The playful suggestion had users debating whether the food delivery titans might actually consider such tactics.
Applicants or Trolls?
Among the humor, a few users claimed to have already applied. One shared, “HUGE UPDATE: I got the job! Just transferred the ₹20 lakh—can’t wait to start.” Another joked, “I was fired after redesigning the Zomato logo. You’re my replacement. Good luck!”
The Bigger Picture: Marketing Genius or Misstep?
While the internet laughs, some argue that the move could be a calculated stunt. The buzz around the post has brought attention to Zomato’s innovative, albeit controversial, methods. Whether anyone actually takes up the offer remains to be seen, but one thing’s clear—Goyal has successfully served up a piping hot plate of intrigue, spiced with a generous dash of humor.
As the saga unfolds, one wonders—does the job include free delivery of this much entertainment?
