Catherine M. Engelbert, widely known as Cathy Engelbert, was born on November 14, 1964, in Collingswood, New Jersey. Growing up in a large family with five brothers and two sisters, she learned teamwork and resilience early in life. Her father, Kurt, was an IT manager and also had a strong basketball background, while her mother worked as a medical practice administrator.
Cathy attended Collingswood High School, where her talent in sports eventually earned her a spot in the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 1993. She later graduated from Lehigh University in 1986 with a degree in accounting while excelling in lacrosse and basketball, serving as captain for the lacrosse team. Soon after, she earned her CPA license and joined the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
Trailblazing Career at Deloitte
Engelbert’s professional journey began at Deloitte in 1986. Over three decades, she worked her way up to become partner in 1998 and later took on significant leadership roles. In 2015, she made history as the first woman to lead a Big Four accounting firm in the United States when she was named CEO of Deloitte.
During her tenure, Deloitte’s revenue grew more than 30%, surpassing $20 billion. Engelbert became known for her focus on technology investments and workplace culture, helping the firm stay competitive in a rapidly changing business environment.
Leading the WNBA
In 2019, Engelbert shifted her leadership from the boardroom to the basketball court when she was named the first-ever commissioner of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Unlike her predecessors, who held the title of president, Engelbert stepped into the newly elevated role with a mission to grow the league, expand its visibility, and create sustainable opportunities for women athletes. She officially began on July 17, 2019.
Family and Personal Life
Cathy is married to Ed Engelbert, and together they have two children: Julia and Thomas. Despite her demanding career, she remains deeply rooted in family values.
Net Worth and Legacy
As of 2025, Cathy Engelbert’s net worth is estimated at around $5 million. Beyond the numbers, her true impact lies in breaking barriers for women in leadership—both in business and sports. She continues to serve on boards including McDonald’s, Royalty Pharma, and Catalyst, while also being part of The Business Council and USGA.
