Emplify Health Welcomes New VP of Information Security Risk Management

Carl Cahill drawn by 'three Cs’ he sees at leading regional health system

 “Have you ever tried to type on a laptop with one hand in the rain 30-feet off the ground while pulling power lines? It’s impossible... so we found a better way.”

Carl Cahill shares this story about his time at Duke Energy to illustrate what he calls “radical collaboration,” something he prioritizes as a leader and a team member.

“Radical collaboration is essentially asking, ‘how can we make things better together?’ It's actively seeking key points in a relationship that bring higher levels of value,” Carl shares. “For me and other technologists, it’s important we get hands-on experience, dig in, understand and refine processes for everyone’s benefit.”

Carl joins Emplify Health later this month as the new Vice President of Information Security Risk Management, replacing Linda Seubert, who retired after more than 40 years of service.

"I am excited to contribute to Emplify Health's mission of improving lives through better health," Carl says. "By leading with empathy and radical collaboration, we can create a secure and supportive environment for our patients, our employees and the communities we serve."

A leader with a heart for the ‘three Cs’

“While at Duke Energy, I pulled power lines with the team in the field to understand their pain points. This included the team sharing the story about the laptop in the rain many feet off the ground. We were able to co-develop a process with tablets and intuitive menu options to make things easier and safer for the people doing this important, at times dangerous work. That’s radical collaboration.”

Along with this, Carl's decision to join Emplify Health was influenced by his interest in the “three Cs:” Culture, the organization's focus on Critical infrastructure, and Community.

"When I can mix work and personal gratification, that’s a win," Carl says, reflecting on his excitement about his move to La Crosse, Wisconsin from North Carolina. “Emplify Health’s vision statement starts with the words ‘Leading with Love.’ I immediately connected with this cultural foundation, and I see it in the people I have met so far. This is a place that has a culture that develops trust across teams.”

For critical infrastructure, Carl will spend his first few months at Emplify Health listening to people in clinical care roles and in technology roles to learn what’s working well and what can be done differently. This listening, paired with available data, to identify opportunities to benefit patients and staff.

“I’d like to demystify cybersecurity and information security,” Carl says. “Many voices from around Emplify Health can help define this and create a sustainable plan to benefit the people in our care.”

For community, Carl shares the La Crosse area’s natural beauty, particularly the Mississippi River, that taps into his love for the outdoors. “This area reminds me of home. I can’t wait to explore it and meet even more of the people who make it great.” An avid traveler, Carl cherishes exploring new cultures with his wife and two sons—savoring unique culinary experiences and finding tranquility in bird watching along the way.

A background in strategic and innovative security

As the Chief Information Security Officer at Ahold Delhaize, one of the world’s largest food supply groups, Carl managed cyber risk for thousands of stores and associates across the United States, Europe, and Indonesia. His leadership was instrumental in the creation of a threat intelligence and vulnerability management team, ensuring PCI compliance for large retail environments, and driving a global approach to unify security services and products.

Prior to Ahold Delhaize, Carl held significant roles at Duke Energy, where he modernized the Information Security Organization and led the industry's model program for smart grid security. Also, his experience at WPS Health Solutions, where he was the first CISO, involved setting foundational components for governance and operations.

A commitment to excellence and continuous improvement

Carl's commitment to excellence and continuous improvement is evident in his educational background and professional certifications. He holds a master's degree in Technology Management from Georgetown University, a Bachelor of Arts from Belmont Abbey College, and is an alumnus of the Wharton School’s General Management Program. Additionally, he has completed several certifications and training programs, including membership in ISSA and the Benelux CISO Community, and has contributed to industry white papers and strategic plans.