In this episode of Who Hired This Person?, host Kaitlyn sits down with Luciana Pollock, Human Resources Manager at Clean As New, an industrial cleaning company serving clients nationwide. With experience working across Brazil, the UK, and the U.S., Luciana brings a global perspective to the realities of HR leadership—where compliance, connection, and culture intersect.

From onboarding to conflict resolution, Luciana shares how real trust, proactive communication, and detailed planning shape the way she builds teams and supports growth. For HR professionals juggling risk and relationships, this episode is packed with thoughtful insight and practical guidance.

🔹 The Accidental HR Origin Story:

Luciana didn’t plan to go into HR—but a university job while studying psychology opened the door. Originally from Brazil, she found that background gave her the perfect foundation for a people-centered HR career that’s now spanned three countries.

🔹 HR with an International Lens:

Working in Brazil, the UK, and the U.S. exposed Luciana to wildly different business norms, leadership styles, and employee expectations. That cultural awareness now informs how she leads with empathy and structure.

🔹 Building Hiring Processes That Actually Work:

Before a job post ever goes live, Luciana collaborates closely with hiring managers to clarify “must-haves,” red flags, and expectations. Her method? Start strong, stay consistent, and always follow up.

🔹 Why Background Checks Shouldn’t Feel Cold:

From onboarding to screenings, Luciana ensures every step is communicated clearly so candidates know what to expect. Warmth and clarity go a long way in reducing confusion and building trust.

🔹 The Secret to Smooth Employee Relations:

Whether it’s performance issues or personality clashes, Luciana approaches employee relations with neutrality, documentation, and clear communication. Her rule? You can shred a document—but you can’t go back in time.

🔹 Time Management as Risk Management:

With HR touching everything from compliance to performance to safety, Luciana organizes her time based on one factor: risk. Her calendar is a living tool that helps her prioritize, prepare, and plan for the unexpected.

🔹 Real Relationships > Office Small Talk:

To keep employees engaged and connected, Luciana invests in real, personal relationships—walking the floor, asking questions, and making herself available. If people don’t trust you, she says, you won’t be effective.

🔹 Advice for the Next Generation of HR Leaders:

Luciana’s biggest message? Be a real person. Learn the systems, yes—but more importantly, master the soft skills that AI can’t replace. Real HR leadership starts with empathy, curiosity, and intention.

✅ HR needs a seat at the table—especially when it comes to planning and growth.

✅ Hiring is a two-way street: clarity and communication benefit everyone.

✅ Documentation protects both people and the business—always do it.

✅ Strong HR is about more than compliance—it’s about connection.

✅ You can’t lead well if you don’t actually care about people.

🔗 Connect with Luciana on LinkedIn: Luciana Pollock

🔗 Learn more about Clean As New: www.cleanasnew.com