Wed Sep 25 09:00:00 UTC 2024: ## WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert Juggles Busy Schedule with “Work-Life Integration”
**New York, NY** – Cathy Engelbert, Commissioner of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), leads a fast-paced life with no time for caffeine. The 59-year-old former CEO of Deloitte doesn’t rely on coffee to power through her busy days, even during the action-packed WNBA playoffs. Engelbert’s long days are a testament to her dedication, honed during her 33-year career at Deloitte, where she became the first female CEO of a Big Four consulting firm.
“I was blessed to have had a long career there,” Engelbert told Fortune, “which has really benefited me coming into the WNBA and the transformation that we’re affecting.”
Engelbert believes in “work-life integration” rather than balance, and encourages other leaders to advocate for the flexibility they need. “I try to counsel young people who sometimes feel shy about asking for that balance,” she said, “But I always tell them, no one’s thinking about your career as much as you are.”
Engelbert’s typical day starts with a commute into New York City, prioritizing spending time with her two children before grabbing a protein bar and banana for breakfast. After arriving at the office around 8:30am, she utilizes “SMORE” (Small Moments of Recovery), scheduling time for networking lunches and breaks.
Her afternoons are filled with meetings, planning for events like the All-Star Game, and, of course, watching WNBA games, a key part of her job. Despite the long hours, she winds down with a relaxing routine: watching business shows, sports, and finally, a nostalgic episode of “Friends” before bed.
Engelbert’s dedication and strategic approach have helped elevate the WNBA, especially with the rise of stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. As she continues to lead the league, her “work-life integration” philosophy serves as an inspiration for young professionals seeking to balance their own careers and personal lives.
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