His appointment comes following the departure of Frank Marrenbach.

Gruenert began his career with the Oetker Group as assistant to the managing partner in 2005. In 2009, he co-led the founding of the Oetker Collection and has served as co-managing director and chief financial officer ever since. 

In a statement, Oetker Collection said Gruenert had overseen the brand's steady growth over the past 11 years, growing it from four hotels in 2009 to nine.

Gruenert said: "I am deeply honoured to step into the role of CEO and continue the journey that Mr. Frank Marrenbach and I began over ten years ago.

"It has always been our aim to grow Oetker Collection into a brand that operates exceptional hotels – true Masterpieces – with family spirit, elegance and genuine kindness. 

"I firmly believe that this puts us in a unique space in today’s hospitality landscape. The company, its Masterpiece Hotels and my fellow-hoteliers around the world occupy a very special place in my heart and I could not be more excited to lead us into the next chapter. We will continue to write the story together."