Telos Meet the Team:

Darby Cahill, Compliance Analyst

Darby is a huge asset on our Compliance team, and she just celebrated a year here at Telos. We are thrilled to have Darby here and look forward to working with her for many years to come!

The business side…

What led you to pursue this career path? My decision to pursue a career as a compliance analyst was shaped by my background in law and my interest in how legal frameworks operate within organizations. During law school, I developed a strong understanding of regulatory systems and risk management, and I realized I was particularly drawn to the practical application of law in ensuring that companies operate ethically and within legal boundaries. Compliance offered the perfect intersection between my legal training and my desire to support organizations in maintaining integrity, avoiding risk, and building trust.

What is the best piece of career advice you have been given? The best career advice I’ve received is: “Learn to be comfortable with being uncomfortable.” This reminded me that growth often happens when we step outside our comfort zones, whether it’s taking on new responsibilities, speaking up in high-stakes meetings, or navigating complex regulatory challenges. It’s helped me stay open to learning, adapt quickly, and build confidence in my career.

What has been your most rewarding professional experience so far? The most rewarding professional experience was working for the Tenant Assistance Project. I had the opportunity to support individuals facing eviction and housing instability by helping them understand their rights and navigate the legal process. It was incredibly fulfilling to apply my legal knowledge in a way that had a direct and meaningful impact on people’s lives.

What is the most stressful part of your job? As a compliance analyst, one of the most stressful aspects of the job is navigating constantly evolving regulations and ensuring the organization stays ahead of compliance risks. Regulatory changes can happen quickly and often require immediate interpretation and implementation, which means there’s little room for error.

How do you approach your work/life balance? I approach work/life balance by setting clear boundaries and being intentional with my time. I make it a priority to stay organized and manage tasks efficiently during the workday, which helps me stay focused and avoid unnecessary stress. Outside of work, I carve out time for activities that help me recharge. I’ve learned that maintaining balance not only supports my well-being but also makes me more effective and present in my role.

Do you feel you have a specific area of expertise in your field? Yes, I would say my area of expertise lies in regulatory research and policy interpretation. With my legal background, I’m particularly skilled at analyzing complex regulations, understanding their implications, and translating them into practical guidance.

What behavior or personality trait do you most attribute to your success and why? I would say adaptability is the trait I most attribute to my success. My ability to stay flexible, quickly adjust to new information, and remain calm under pressure has allowed me to navigate challenges effectively and continue growing in my role.

Do you have any specific goals or milestones you are striving to achieve?   Yes, one of my current goals is to deepen my expertise in supplemental health insurance regulations and compliance. Given how complex and ever-changing this field is, I want to build a thorough understanding of industry-specific rules to better anticipate risks and help organizations stay compliant.

What is one piece of advice you would give someone just starting out in your same career path? I would advise them to stay curious and proactive about learning—not just about laws and regulations, but also about the business and industry they’re working in. Compliance is about more than rules, it’s about understanding how those rules impact the organization and its goals. Most importantly, be patient. Developing expertise takes time, but persistence pays off.

Do you have a professional book that you would recommend everyone read? Yes, I would recommend The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande. It’s an insightful book about how using simple checklists can improve efficiency, reduce errors, and manage complex processes—principles that are incredibly relevant in compliance work. It highlights the importance of attention to detail and structured approaches, which are essential for ensuring organizations meet regulatory requirements effectively.

And the personal side…

What is your favorite food?  A house salad with blackened chicken from Mouth of the South.  Favorite restaurant? Mouth of the South is my favorite restaurant because of its great atmosphere and consistently excellent food.

What is the coolest thing you’ve ever made?  I am not crafty, but I might pick up a hobby now that I am done with school.

What was your first job? My first job was at Kids Network, which is a before and after school program for elementary school kids.

What is the best vacation you have ever taken? I do not have a favorite vacation spot as of yet, but I will be traveling to Italy in April of 2026.

Do you have any siblings? I have one older brother and one younger sister.

What is your favorite holiday and why? My favorite holiday is Christmas because it gives me the chance to reconnect with family members I don’t get to see often. It’s one of the few times during the year when everyone comes together. Every year, my family and I come together to bake desserts, making it a special opportunity to enjoy quality time with loved ones.

What is your guilty pleasure? I love watching reality television. Summer House is my favorite reality tv show.

What is something that always makes you smile? Spending time with my friends and family.

Where did you grow up? Omaha, Nebraska

What is your favorite season and why? I like the Spring because my birthday is in the Spring and the weather starts getting warmer.

What is the first concert you ever attended? Hannah Montana  How about the best concert? I don’t have a best concert yet, but one I’m really hoping to attend someday is James Taylor’s. I’ve heard amazing things about his performances and would love to experience his music live.

What is the bravest thing you ever did? The bravest thing I’ve done was going to law school. It was a challenging journey that required dedication and stepping outside of my comfort zone, but it helped shape who I am today.