Deepinder Goyal, co-founder of food delivery platform Zomato and chief executive officer of Eternal Ltd, has announced that he will step down from the company’s top executive role, paving the way for a leadership transition at the consumer tech group. The move is set to take effect from February 1, 2026.
Goyal, who has led the organisation since its early days, will transition to the role of vice chairman. In this position, he is expected to focus on long-term vision, governance and mentoring the next generation of leadership, while stepping away from day-to-day operational responsibilities.
Taking over as group CEO will be Albinder Dhindsa, the founder and current head of quick-commerce platform Blinkit. Dhindsa’s elevation reflects Eternal’s growing emphasis on rapid-delivery businesses, which have become a key growth driver for the group in recent years.
Goyal said the decision was driven by a desire to explore higher-risk entrepreneurial opportunities and to reduce the constraints that come with running a publicly listed company. He added that his long-term commitment to the group remains intact, underlining that he continues to hold a significant stake in Eternal and remains invested in its future.
Under Dhindsa’s leadership, Blinkit has expanded aggressively, strengthening its position in India’s competitive quick-commerce space. His appointment signals continuity rather than disruption, as he has already been closely involved in shaping the group’s operational strategy.
Eternal’s board has backed the leadership change, describing it as a planned succession aimed at aligning leadership strengths with evolving business priorities. The company has seen improving financial performance in recent quarters, aided by stronger unit economics and growth in non-restaurant commerce.
Goyal, one of India’s most recognisable startup founders, launched Zomato in 2008 and oversaw its transformation into a diversified tech company spanning food delivery, grocery, and hyperlocal services. The upcoming transition marks the end of an era, while setting the stage for a new phase under Dhindsa’s operational leadership.
Shareholder approvals and regulatory processes related to the change are expected to be completed ahead of the February 2026 timeline.
