In the corporate business arena, leadership is undergoing a profound transformation. Traditional, top-down management models are giving way to approaches that prioritize emotional intelligence, purpose-driven vision, and collaborative culture. One such emerging paradigm is the integration of joy and human connection into leadership practices a shift that not only enhances productivity but also fosters sustainable growth and well-being within organizations.

At the forefront of this movement is the concept of Joyful Leadership a modern leadership philosophy that combines strategic clarity with emotional resonance. Among its leading voices is Heidi Weber Rüegg, a seasoned consultant and founder of Impact Development GmbH. With over 30 years of experience and nearly two decades dedicated to guiding leaders and organizations, Heidi is helping shape a new era of leadership one rooted in authenticity, lightness, and joy. Her work is proving that when people lead with heart, they don’t just achieve results they transform cultures.

Culture Catalyst

Impact Development was founded in 2007 by Heidi Weber Rüegg, initially specializing in talent management and recruitment. Recognizing the growing complexity of organizational dynamics and the evolving expectations of modern leadership, the firm gradually expanded its scope to include leadership coaching and the strategic development of organizational culture. Over the years, Impact Development has established a strong reputation for guiding individuals, teams, and entire organizations through periods of transformation with clarity and purpose.

Today, the firm is best known for its pioneering “Joyful Leadership” approach—a distinctive framework that positions joy not as a superficial concept, but as a core driver of resilience, innovation, and sustainable performance. By integrating emotional intelligence, visionary thinking, and a deep understanding of human behavior, Impact Development empowers leaders to create work environments where people thrive, collaborate meaningfully, and deliver exceptional results. Through this approach, the company continues to shape a new generation of leadership grounded in authenticity, energy, and purpose.

Conscious Leadership

1. Joyful Leadership

Designed for the next generation of leaders, this coaching program equips individuals with the mindset, tools, and presence needed to lead with clarity, authenticity, and impact. Rooted in the principles of emotional intelligence and purpose-driven leadership, it empowers decision-makers to navigate complexity while fostering engagement and trust.

1. Joyful Teamwork

This offering focuses on transforming team dynamics and organizational culture. Through tailored interventions, Impact Development helps teams shift from siloed, transactional interactions to collaborative, high-performing units grounded in mutual respect, shared purpose, and joy. The result is an inspiring culture where innovation, high energy, and alignment thrive.

1. Joyful Me

A personal development track dedicated to enhancing individual energy, resilience, and self-awareness. Through coaching and energy work, leaders reconnect with their core strengths, restore balance, and cultivate the inner clarity necessary to lead and live with intention. This program supports sustainable personal growth alongside professional excellence.

Built on Purpose

The growth of Impact Development has been consistently driven by the personal commitment of Heidi to continuous learning, exploration, and innovation. Her deep curiosity about the unknown and her passion for venturing into new territory have served as powerful catalysts in shaping the company’s evolution and expanding its service offerings.

Her intrinsic drive for personal and professional growth has remained a defining force behind the firm’s sustained progress, influencing not only the direction of the business but also the meaningful impact it continues to deliver to its clients.

Mindful Progress

At Impact Development, innovation is embedded in day-to-day operations, with every action taken deliberately and in alignment with a clearly defined vision. The organization views learning not as a checkbox activity, but as a fundamental part of its mindset and culture an ongoing process that drives both individual and collective growth. While technology plays a supportive role in enabling communication, the core of the work lies in fostering meaningful human connection. From heart to heart in a honest way. The clear focus on authentic interaction remains central to Impact Development’s philosophy and continues to guide its approach to leadership, collaboration, and transformation.

At the establishment, the principle of resonance guides everything they do, Heidi states. The organization lives and embodies the change it seeks to inspire in the world. This authentic alignment naturally attracts the right clients, as the firm focuses on resonating with its audience rather than traditional marketing tactics. By staying true to its values and vision, she fosters genuine connections that drive meaningful and lasting relationships.

Unified Growth

Heidi’s long-term success is built on a foundation of quality, continuous evolution, and meaningful client relationships rooted in trust, authenticity, and joy. The company embraces diversity as a core value, emphasizing that shared purpose and values take precedence over age, gender, or background. The focus is on fostering genuine human connection, transcending traditional categories, and creating a collaborative environment where everyone’s unique perspective contributes to collective growth and success.