25hours Hotel The Oddbird announces the appointment of Michael B. Gaehler as its new General Manager, marking a new chapter for the brand’s first hotel in Asia-Pacific. Michael steps into the role with a clear focus: to keep the hotel true to its character while continuing to shape it as a place that feels open, creative, and connected to Jakarta.
With more than two decades in international hospitality, Michael brings experience across Europe and Asia, shaped by a career that bridges culinary roots and hotel leadership. He built his early foundation in Switzerland’s fine dining scene before moving into senior operational roles, developing a hands-on approach and attention to detail that continue to define how he leads today.
Over the years, he has built his career within internationally recognised five-star hotels and design-led properties, with a focus on places that balance strong identity with day-to-day functionality. His experience spans both established hotels and new openings, where he has worked closely on shaping concepts, strengthening operations, and building teams that deliver a consistent, grounded guest experience.
Michael was also closely involved in the development of 25hours Hotel The Oddbird prior to its opening, leading the setup of operations, shaping the food and beverage direction including COPA Restaurant, and building the team that brought the hotel to life. His return now as General Manager brings both continuity and a deeper understanding of the property’s identity.
At 25hours Hotel The Oddbird, he will oversee all aspects of the hotel’s operations, from guest experience to programming across its spaces, including COPA Restaurant and Oddbird Bar, while continuing to guide the hotel’s direction as it moves into its next phase.
Known for his hands-on leadership style, Michael has built a reputation for developing strong teams and keeping operations grounded, with a practical understanding of both guest experience and financial performance.
Outside of work, he still enjoys being close to the kitchen, often cooking and hosting in his own time. He keeps active through running, hiking, biking, and diving, and has a long-standing interest in wellbeing and longevity. A dog lover at heart, he supports rescue over buying, and after years across the region, has developed a strong connection to Asia, with a particular appreciation for Indonesian and Thai cuisine.
Since opening in November 2024, The Oddbird has grown into a place where guests and locals cross paths, whether for a stay, a meal, or a night out. Under Michael’s leadership, the focus remains the same: keep it relevant, keep it grounded, and keep it connected to the city. Michael’s appointment reflects the brand’s ongoing commitment to Jakarta, as well as its wider growth in the region.
Michael B. Gaehler is an alumnus of Belvoirpark Hotelfachschule Zurich – Class of 2000.
