At Harvesting Robotics, a technology startup based in Hyderabad, one of the most beloved members of the executive team doesn’t write code or attend strategy meetings. Instead, he roams the office with a wagging tail and an open heart — his presence reminding everyone of the simpler joys of showing up.
His name is Denver. He is a golden retriever. And as of this month, he is officially the company’s Chief Happiness Officer (CHO).
While the title may draw smiles, the intention behind it is serious. In a sector known for burnout, long hours, and high attrition, the company has turned to a tried and true source of comfort — a friendly canine companion — to enhance employee well-being and create a more human workplace.
“We didn’t hire him to innovate. We hired him to remind us why we innovate,” said co-founder Rahul Arepaka in a LinkedIn post that introduced Denver to the public. “He doesn’t code. He doesn’t care. He just shows up, steals hearts, and keeps the energy up.”
Fur, Fields, and Future
Founded with a focus on agricultural robotics, Harvesting Robotics builds laser-weeding systems for sustainable farming — a sector that marries deep tech with rural applications. The company’s culture, however, aims to remain refreshingly grounded. Denver’s presence is an extension of that ethos: he plays with engineers during brainstorming breaks, sits in on informal huddles, and meanders between desks with a calmness that counteracts the tension that often fills fast-paced startups.
The idea of a “Chief Happiness Officer” isn’t entirely new — some global firms have tried pet therapy programs or pet-friendly offices. But Harvesting Robotics has gone a step further by giving the role a title and treating Denver’s presence as part of its cultural architecture.
Beyond Perks: A Message of Belonging
Employees say that Denver’s appointment has created a noticeable shift in mood. What might have begun as a light-hearted gesture now feels symbolic — especially in a post-pandemic world where companies are redefining the nature of work.
“He reminds us to pause. To breathe. To laugh without a reason,” said one engineer. “Sometimes, we need that more than another Slack notification.”
While Denver may never make it to the boardroom, his impact ripples across every corner of the office. In a world of deadlines and deliverables, he is a soft interruption — and perhaps the most effective one yet.