Young CMO Leaves $300,000 Job Over 12-Hour Workdays

Daniel Min, the 22-year-old Chief Marketing Officer of the AI startup Cluely, has resigned after just eight months in the role, citing the demanding nature of the job as a significant factor. Despite a lucrative annual salary exceeding $300,000 (approximately Rs 2.7 crore), Min expressed that the relentless 12-hour workdays took a toll on his personal life and well-being.

Min joined Cluely in May 2025 after graduating from The Wharton School with a degree in Marketing and Operations Management. Initially, he found excitement in his work, relishing the challenges that came with the position. However, within just four months, Min noticed a decline in his job satisfaction, describing his experience as increasingly monotonous.

In a candid Instagram video shared on Saturday, Min reflected on his journey and the sacrifices he made for the job. “I thought working all day, grinding 12 hours a day was what you should be doing when you’re at the age of 21,” he admitted. Yet, he quickly began to miss the simple joys of life, such as dining with friends or celebrating his younger brother’s 12th birthday.

As he grappled with his feelings, Min revealed that Cluely’s CEO, Roy Lee, noticed his dissatisfaction and reached out to him. During a heartfelt conversation, Min found the courage to express his thoughts about leaving the company. “I proceeded to start crying,” he shared. “There’s probably no one else who has looked out for me more than Roy, but it broke me to realise that being at Cluely, this little brotherhood that I spent literally 12 hours a day living with, wasn’t the ladder that I wanted to climb.”

Min’s departure highlights a growing conversation around work-life balance, especially for young professionals in high-pressure industries. The startup culture often glorifies long hours and relentless dedication, yet Min’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of personal freedom and mental health.

As companies like Cluely continue to navigate the demands of a competitive market, they may need to reconsider their work structures to foster a more sustainable environment for their employees.