Safra Catz, born in 1961, navigated a high-level transition at Oracle Corporation in September 2025, moving from her role as CEO to executive vice chair. Her professional journey, which spans decades in finance and technology, includes significant leadership positions and board memberships at major multinational firms, alongside ongoing involvement in national security advisory councils.
Early Education and Banking Career
Raised in Brookline, Massachusetts, after moving from Holon at age six, Catz graduated from Brookline High School. She completed her undergraduate studies at The Wharton School in 1983 and obtained a degree from the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School in 1986. Her career began in finance as a banker, where she held various roles before joining Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette.
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She served as president in 2004 and held the position of chief financial officer between 2005 and 2008, as well as from 2011 onward. In 2014, she assumed the role of joint CEO. Following leadership changes, she served as the sole CEO until her appointment as executive vice chair in 2025.
Public Service and Policy Roles
Catz has participated in various government and policy-related capacities. She served on the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence and, in 2022, joined the Homeland Security Advisory Council. In 2026, she received an appointment to the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology. Her political engagement includes donations to campaigns and transition team involvement.
Corporate Boards and Acquisitions
Throughout her career, Catz has held directorships at several companies, including PeopleSoft Inc, Stellent Inc, and Hyperion Solutions. She served on the board of HSBC from 2008 until 2015 and held a board seat at The Walt Disney Company from 2018 to 2024. In 2025, she joined the board of Paramount Skydance following its merger.
Fast facts
- Born: 1961, Holon, Israel
- Citizenship: United States; Israel
- Education: The Wharton School (1983); University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School (1986)
- Oracle joining year: 1999
- Current status: Executive vice chair, Oracle Corporation
- Notable board service: HSBC, The Walt Disney Company, Paramount Skydance
- Spouse: Gal Tirosh
- Residence: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Questions readers ask
What is Safra Catz's current role at Oracle?
As of September 2025, she serves as the executive vice chair.
Has Catz held positions in the US government?
She serves on the Homeland Security Advisory Council and the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.
Achievements
- Affiliated with Oracle Corporation and Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette
- Educated at University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School and The Wharton School
