Zomato, India’s leading food delivery giant, has sparked a heated debate with its unique job posting for a Chief of Staff position. Instead of offering a traditional salary, the company is asking candidates to pay a hefty fee of Rs 20 lakh ($23,700) for the opportunity.

A Controversial Move

Deepinder Goyal, Zomato’s CEO, justified the fee by highlighting the immense learning opportunity it presents. He emphasized that the experience gained in this role would far surpass the value of a two-year MBA program. However, many critics argue that this approach creates an unfair barrier for ambitious individuals who may not have the financial means to pay such a significant fee.

A Double-Edged Sword

While some professionals see this as a golden opportunity to work closely with a seasoned entrepreneur and gain invaluable experience, others view it as a discriminatory practice that excludes those from less privileged backgrounds. The debate has ignited discussions on social media platforms like LinkedIn and X, with users expressing both support and criticism for Zomato’s unconventional hiring strategy.

The Perks and the Price Tag

Although the initial year may not offer a traditional salary, Goyal has assured candidates that they will receive an annual salary of at least Rs 5 lakh ($60,000) from the second year onwards, provided they meet expectations. The role will involve working closely with Goyal to build Zomato, its quick commerce venture Blinkit, and other strategic initiatives.

Zomato’s Meteoric Rise

Under Goyal’s leadership, Zomato has transformed into a dominant player in the Indian food delivery market. The company’s rapid expansion into quick commerce, where groceries are delivered within minutes, has further solidified its position. Zomato’s impressive growth has been reflected in its soaring stock price, which has doubled this year, valuing the company at over $28 billion.

A Bold Experiment or a Barrier to Entry?

Zomato’s unusual job offer has undoubtedly captured the attention of the tech industry and beyond. It raises important questions about the future of work, the role of traditional qualifications, and the impact of financial barriers on career opportunities. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether this approach will become a trend or a one-off experiment.