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Cathy Engelbert

Cathy Engelbert - Pioneering Leader in Business and Sports



Professional Overview


Cathy Engelbert is a visionary leader known for her transformative impact across diverse industries. As the Commissioner of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), she has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives to elevate the profile and equity of women's professional sports. With extensive experience as a senior executive at Deloitte, she brings a wealth of strategic expertise to her roles on the boards of McDonald's and Royalty Pharma.

Experience Summary



Current Roles


WNBA Commissioner (2019 - Present)
  • Tasked with driving the strategic growth and visibility of the WNBA, the premier women's professional basketball league in the world

  • Implemented innovative programs to increase player salaries, improve working conditions, and expand media coverage of the league

  • Championed the WNBA's leadership in social justice initiatives, positioning the league as a powerful voice for diversity, equity, and inclusion


Board Member, McDonald's (2019 - Present)
  • Provides strategic guidance to the global fast-food giant, leveraging her expertise in organizational transformation and operational excellence


Board Member, Royalty Pharma (2020 - Present)
  • Offers valuable insights to the leading biopharmaceutical company, drawing upon her deep understanding of the healthcare industry


Career Progression


CEO, Deloitte (2015 - 2019)
  • Served as the first-ever female CEO of a major professional services firm in the United States

  • Spearheaded the firm's digital transformation, driving innovation and enhancing client service delivery

  • Championed diversity and inclusion initiatives, increasing the representation of women and minorities in leadership positions


Partner, Deloitte (1998 - 2019)
  • Held various leadership roles, including Chairman and CEO of Deloitte & Touche LLP, showcasing her exceptional management and strategic acumen


Academic Background


  • Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Lehigh University


Areas of Expertise


  • Organizational transformation and change management

  • Strategic planning and execution

  • Financial and operational excellence

  • Diversity, equity, and inclusion leadership

  • Sports industry governance and policy development


Professional Impact


  • Recognized as one of the "100 Most Powerful Women in the World" by Forbes

  • Awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award by the NCAA for her contributions to women's sports

  • Instrumental in negotiating landmark labor agreements that significantly improved player compensation and working conditions in the WNBA


Conclusion


Cathy Engelbert's career has been defined by her ability to drive transformative change and champion the advancement of women in business and sports. As the WNBA Commissioner, board member at leading corporations, and former CEO of Deloitte, she continues to make a lasting impact through her strategic vision, operational excellence, and unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion.