Veteran-Owned. Service-Led. Results-Driven.
At Acro Refrigeration, we don’t just talk about reliability and service — we live it.
Our Director, Paul Simmons, brings a lifetime of service, leadership, and discipline to the business. From early beginnings in the Army Reserve, to 20 years in frontline policing, and now 20 years in business, his career has been defined by high performance in high-pressure environments.
Today, that same commitment underpins everything we do — from urgent refrigeration breakdowns to complex HVAC installations. We know what it means to be called upon when it matters most, and we respond with urgency, skill, and calm professionalism.
Paul is a recognised Fellow of the Institute of Managers and Leaders and the Governance Institute of Australia, holds an MBA, and volunteers on the boards of three charities. He also serves with the Red Cross Emergency Services, and has mentored up-and-coming mechanical engineers as part of his dedication to building the next generation of technical leaders.
“As a veteran-owned business, we understand service, duty, and accountability. We bring that mindset to every client relationship.”
When you partner with Acro In Brisbane and Gold Coast, you’re not just getting a contractor — you’re working with a team that embodies discipline, responsiveness, and trust, built on a foundation of service.
🎙️ Interview with Paul – Director of Acro Refrigeration
Veteran-Owned. Brisbane-Born. Service-Driven.
Q: Paul, you’ve had a career that spans the Army Reserve, frontline policing, and now business leadership. How have those experiences shaped the way you run Acro?
Paul:
All those roles had one thing in common — the need to deliver under pressure. When a commercial fridge goes down in a busy kitchen on the Gold Coast, or a cool room fails in Brisbane, our clients can’t afford delays or excuses. We show up fast, with the right parts, and get it sorted. That discipline, attention to detail, and commitment to service — it’s something I’ve carried across from the Army and police into Acro.
Q: Why did you choose to position Acro as a veteran-owned business?
Paul:
Because it reflects how we think and operate. We’re structured, reliable, and results-focused. Veterans understand accountability, teamwork, and service — all of which translate directly into how we support our clients. Acro is a proud member of the Veteran Community Business Chamber and a participant in the Department of Veterans’ Affairs Veteran Employment Program, which reflects our commitment to supporting and employing ex-service personnel.
Q: What do you want clients in Brisbane and the Gold Coast to know about Acro?
Paul:
That we back our work. We offer a 5-year workmanship guarantee — well beyond the manufacturer’s warranty — and we specialise in HACCP-compliant systems. That means our team understands the food safety and compliance standards critical to restaurants, schools, hospitals, aged care homes, and food manufacturers. You can trust us to get the job done properly, on time, and with compliance front of mind.
Q: You volunteer on the boards of three charities and with the Red Cross. What keeps you involved?
Paul:
I’ve seen how important it is to show up when people are vulnerable — whether it’s after a natural disaster or helping a not-for-profit improve their governance. That’s part of my ethos. Business should be useful. My work with the Red Cross and charity boards keeps me grounded and reminds me of the bigger picture.
Q: Has Acro contributed to the community beyond your personal involvement?
Paul:
Yes — Acro has donated refrigeration equipment, labour, and service time to several charities and community organisations. We don’t promote it much — but we believe that if you’re in a position to help, you should. Whether it’s outfitting a food relief charity or ensuring a community kitchen stays operational, we quietly step in when it counts.
Q: What makes Acro different from other refrigeration contractors?
Paul:
We don’t just show up — we show up prepared. Our vans are fully stocked, our techs are licensed and insured, and we operate 24/7 with rapid response, often within 2 hours. We’re serious about delivering outcomes, not just completing jobs. Our systems are tight, our follow-up is strong, and our people are trained to solve problems — not just tick boxes.
Q: You’ve mentored young mechanical engineers. What’s the key lesson you pass on?
Paul:
Take responsibility. Technical knowledge matters, but real leadership comes from owning the result — understanding the client’s needs, applying critical thinking, and following through. That’s what turns a technician into a trusted professional.
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