Ms Daniela Farina

Department Manager for Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS) Cornwall

The Department Manager for Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS) Cornwall provides operational and strategic support to achieve departmental and faculty objectives. Reporting to the Deputy Director of Faculty Operations (DDFO) for HaSS and the Head of the HaSS Cornwall Department, Daniela's role encompasses managing departmental operations, enhancing student and staff experiences, promoting collaboration between academic and professional services staff, and overseeing the implementation of departmental policies and procedures.

Key functions of the role:

• Offers strategic guidance to the Head of Department and manages departmental planning, including preparing reports.
• Collaborates with faculty and university partners on research, education, and external engagement initiatives.
• Oversees non-staff budgets and supports financial planning alongside the Management Accountant.
• Acts as a professional services lead, fostering communication and inclusivity within the team.
• Monitors research performance, supports REF and KEF data capture, and organises seminars to enhance research culture.
• Leads health and safety compliance and supports regulatory adherence in complex areas.

Prior to her current position, Daniela served as Project Manager for the university's laboratory sustainability programme, focusing on reducing the 

environmental impact of teaching and research labs. Her leadership in this area earned her the prestigious Green Gown Sustainability National Champion award. 

Daniela’s earlier roles include managing laboratories at the Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI), where she supported multidisciplinary research involving over 150 users, overseeing laboratory operations and health and safety compliance. During her tenure, she contributed to initiatives such as the Athena SWAN programme, demonstrating her commitment to promoting equality and diversity in the workplace.

Before joining the University of Exeter, Daniela gained valuable experience in the private sector. 

Daniela’s diverse expertise spans project management, sustainability, laboratory operations, and leadership. Her commitment to fostering collaboration, innovation, and efficiency has been a hallmark of her career, driving impactful change within academia and beyond.