After more than 20 years at UNE, Mark Haydon knows the Science, Agriculture, Business and Law Faculty (SABL) inside out – and it shows. As Faculty Manager, his role spans budgets, grants, staffing, compliance and everything in between. It’s a complex job, but one he describes as “always interesting”.

Mark received a Highly Commended recognition in the Unsung Hero category at this year’s Staff Awards, acknowledging his steady leadership and deep institutional knowledge.

“The variety in my role is actually the most enjoyable element,” Mark says. “No two days look the same. There’s always a mix of budget or grant management, HR advice and supporting staff with their enquiries.”

Mark’s deep knowledge of all things UNE is built on experience. He started working at UNE in 2003 as Resource Manager in the old Faculty of Economics, Business and Law before moving to the Schools of Science, Technology and Environmental, and Rural Science in 2015.

“This exposure to all of the schools in SABL has been extremely helpful,” Mark says. “I know the areas and the challenges they face quite well.”

Managing a faculty as large and diverse as SABL demands trust and collaboration.

“When I first started, the faculty was small enough to be involved in every step of resource management,” Mark says. “Now, I’ve had to learn to trust others more to help me fulfil the role. I’m lucky to have fantastic staff both within and outside the faculty who are committed to doing a good job for SABL and UNE.”

Asked what keeps him motivated in a role that often operates behind the scenes, Mark is matter of fact:

“I simply get a buzz out of helping people navigate UNE and its policies and hopefully applying some pragmatism and common sense to help them achieve what they need to do. I’m fortunate to work in an area where I feel valued.”

Although it’s a full-on job, Mark doesn’t run on caffeine. He admits he’s not the world’s best sleeper, so it’s just one cup of tea a day to keep things running, or an occasional hot chocolate.

Asked If he ever had the chance to swap roles for a day, Mark responded that it would be with the farm manager.

“I don’t have a rural background,” he says, “but I really enjoy visiting the farms or Tullimba to see the projects we’re undertaking.”

For someone who prefers to stay out of the spotlight, Mark’s quiet competence and long-standing commitment make him a fitting recipient of Highly Commended for the Unsung Hero Award.