BayCare Hires New CIO, Promotes From Within for VP of System Finance

William Walders will serve as the system's new CIO, and James Haislip as vice president of system finance.

BayCare, a leading not-for-profit healthcare system including home care services, has announced a promotion and new hire at its executive and C-suite levels.

William Walders, CHCIO, CDH-E, had been hired as its new chief information officer. Walders previously served Melbourne, Florida-based Health First in the same role, as well as senior vice president of operations support.

In addition to  more than 20 years of leadership experience in healthcare and information systems, Walders is also a retired U.S. Navy commander and recipient of the Defense Meritorious Service Medal.

In 2022, he was named Florida Large Enterprise CIO of the Year.

"William is well respected in the industry and brings a strong background of experience in digital health, insurance, and health system delivery technology to BayCare," CEO Tim Thompson, said in a statement.

"I am excited about the opportunity to join such a respected organization and to be a part of an exceptional culture of trust, respect, and dignity," Walders said in a statement. "I look forward to working with an amazing leadership team and the talented group of IT leaders and staff at BayCare."

Baycare also has promoted James Haislip to vice president of system finance.  He'd previously served as the system's director of financial planning and analysis.

As vice president of system finance, Haislip will oversee the finance team that supports the regional leaders, including those for construction and information services.

"James has demonstrated the ability to collaborate with leaders and possesses strong analytical skills," according to Janice Polo, BayCare's chief financial officer. "He thinks outside the box, is accountable, and is a natural mentor to his team."

"I'm excited and grateful for the opportunity to work with our incredible team to ensure a strong future of providing the best care in our communities," Haislip said in a statement. "BayCare's history of excellence has put us in a great position to achieve that goal."