In a viral move blending workplace joy and innovation, a Hyderabad startup has hired Denver, a golden retriever, as its Chief Happiness Officer—marking the start of a pet-friendly era at the office.
NEW DELHI: In a move that’s winning hearts online and redefining corporate culture, Harvested Robotics, a Hyderabad-based agritech startup, has appointed a golden retriever named Denver as its new Chief Happiness Officer (CHO).
The announcement came from co-founder Rahul Arepaka through a lighthearted LinkedIn post that quickly went viral, drawing in thousands of likes and reactions. He wrote:
“Meet our newest hire, Denver — Chief Happiness Officer.
He doesn’t code. He doesn’t care.
He just shows up, steals hearts, and keeps the energy up.
Also, we’re officially pet-friendly now. Best decision 🐾
BTW: He’s got the best perks in the company.”
With this appointment, the startup has officially embraced a pet-friendly workplace policy, blending productivity with emotional well-being.
Who Is Denver?
Denver is a golden retriever who now holds the unofficial title of being the most loved team member at the company. Whether he’s lounging during meetings or offering paw-shakes during breaks, Denver has taken on his role of spreading joy with full commitment.
“He’s already more loved than most of us,” joked one team member.
The company says his presence has significantly boosted morale, encouraged casual team bonding, and offered relief during high-stress moments.
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Why a Chief Happiness Officer?
While some companies appoint CHOs as human resources executives, this startup took a refreshingly unique approach by assigning the role to their four-legged friend.
In a candid conversation, co-founder Rahul Arepaka explained,
“This may look like a gimmick, but it’s not. Denver plays a real role in keeping the team mentally and emotionally balanced. He brings smiles, encourages breaks, and reminds us to not take ourselves too seriously.”
A New Breed of Office Culture
Known for its work in sustainable agriculture using advanced technology, the startup is also making waves for prioritizing mental wellness.
“He doesn’t generate code or revenue, but he delivers happiness per hour better than any of us,” quipped an engineer from the team.
The shift to a pet-friendly policy is already making a noticeable difference. Employees say Denver’s presence lightens the atmosphere, helps break the monotony, and fosters spontaneous connections across departments.
Internet Reactions & Larger Implications
Online, Denver has become an instant celebrity. The viral post drew admiration, laughter, and encouragement from users across platforms.
“Every company should have a CHO like Denver!” wrote one user.
Another added, “He already looks exhausted and overworked.”
The story underscores a growing trend among modern workplaces—where wellness, flexibility, and emotional intelligence are as valued as productivity and profit.
Denver may not understand meetings or metrics, but he understands joy—and that’s proving to be just as important.
“We hope more companies follow our lead,” said Arepaka.
“At the end of the day, happiness is productivity.”
With Denver leading the happiness front, this startup is not only cultivating smarter farming practices—but also a kinder, more joyful workplace.
