Ms Daniela Farina

Department Manager, Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS) Cornwall

Daniela Farina is the Department Manager for Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS) Cornwall, providing operational and strategic support to help deliver departmental and faculty objectives. She reports jointly to the Deputy Director of Faculty Operations (DDFO) for HASS and the Head of the HaSS Cornwall Department.

In her role, Daniela is responsible for managing departmental operations, strengthening collaboration between academic and professional services colleagues, and ensuring the effective implementation of policies and procedures.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing guidance to the Head of Department and managing departmental planning, including reports and forward planning.
• Collaborating with Faculty and University partners on research, education, and external engagement initiatives.
• Overseeing non-staff budgets and supporting financial planning with the Management Accountant.
• Acting as professional services lead, fostering inclusive communication within the team.
• Monitoring research performance, supporting REF and KEF data collection, and coordinating seminars to enhance research culture.
• Leading health and safety compliance and supporting regulatory adherence in complex areas.

Before taking up this post, Daniela was Project Manager for the University’s laboratory sustainability programme, where she focused on reducing the environmental impact of teaching and research laboratories. Her leadership in this area was recognised with the prestigious Green Gown Sustainability National Champion award.

Earlier in her career, Daniela served as Laboratory Manager at the Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI), where she supported multidisciplinary research involving more than 150 users. She oversaw laboratory operations and health and safety compliance, while also contributing to initiatives such as the Athena SWAN programme, reflecting her strong commitment to equality and diversity.

Prior to joining the University of Exeter, Daniela worked in the private sector, gaining valuable project management and operational experience.

Daniela’s career is distinguished by her expertise in project management, sustainability, research operations, and leadership. Her commitment to collaboration, innovation, and efficiency continues to drive positive change within academia and beyond.