Doris Brandenberger^[1] (born August 15, 1966, in Rüti ZH, Switzerland) is a Swiss entrepreneur, health economist, and the founder of MediCongress GmbH, a leading agency specializing in the organization of health policy and medical congresses. Over her decades-long career, Brandenberger has become a pivotal figure in Switzerland's healthcare event management sector, noted for her innovative approaches to networking and knowledge exchange.

Born in Rüti, Zurich, Doris Brandenberger displayed a strong commitment to professional excellence early on. She pursued studies in adult education, marketing, and image consulting, earning credentials such as a diploma in Adult Education (SVEB) and a federal certificate in Marketing Planning. Her multilingual abilities—fluent in German and English—have further supported her endeavors in fostering international collaborations.

In 2011, Doris Brandenberger^[2] founded MediCongress GmbH in Dübendorf, Switzerland, with the vision of creating a dynamic platform for healthcare professionals to exchange ideas and address critical industry challenges. MediCongress quickly became synonymous with high-caliber events like the DRG-Forum Switzerland-Germany, which debuted alongside the introduction of case-based billing systems (DRG) in Switzerland.

The forum brought together stakeholders, including hospital directors, chief physicians, and policymakers, to discuss solutions for pressing healthcare challenges. MediCongress now hosts ten major annual events, including the DRG and More, e-Healthcare CIRCLE, Communication Summit, Futurfit, Best Practice in Healthcare and the Healthcare Leader Forum, which Doris herself conceptualized to strengthen regional healthcare collaboration.

When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the event management industry in 2020, MediCongress faced an unprecedented challenge, with nearly 70% of its revenue at risk. Under Doris's leadership, the agency pivoted to virtual and hybrid formats. Within weeks, MediCongress launched its first virtual event, E-Healthcare Circle, transforming its offices into fully equipped studios for filming and streaming. ^[3]

By leveraging internal resources and engaging her team in an agile approach, Doris successfully sustained operations and even achieved profitability in 2020. The transformation not only enabled the continuation of events but also expanded the company's technical capabilities, allowing it to offer tailored virtual platforms for clients.

Before establishing MediCongress, Doris co-founded International Congress Forum AG in St. Moritz, where she oversaw operations and orchestrated high-profile medical congresses. Earlier, she managed DK Event, focusing on cross-industry event planning.^[4]

Doris is deeply committed to community service, having co-founded and served as vice president of the Association for Children with Rare Diseases from 2014 to 2021. Her military background as a captain in the Swiss Air Force from 1986 to 2000 exemplifies her dedication to public service and leadership.

Doris introduced groundbreaking organizational models at MediCongress, such as Holacracy, which emphasizes decentralized management. She also piloted a four-day workweek, demonstrating her forward-thinking approach to workplace productivity and employee well-being.^[5]

Doris resides in Engadin with her husband Peter Brandenberger and their son Joël. The region’s scenic landscapes have deeply inspired her, shaping her vision for integrating healthcare and tourism. Beyond work, Doris practices yoga, meditation, and nature walks, fostering a balanced lifestyle.^[6]

HIPE Award (2022): Recognized for exemplary service delivery in the healthcare event management sector.

Economic Magazine Feature: Highlighted for fostering "synergies" across Switzerland’s healthcare ecosystem.

Doris Brandenberger’s philosophy centers on building synergies and fostering trust. Her leadership at MediCongress exemplifies how innovative thinking and collaboration can drive industry-wide impact. With a focus on hybrid event solutions and digital innovation, Doris continues to redefine the landscape of healthcare events in Switzerland.