Our Founder – Stefan Ackerie

A Visionary Leader. A Hairdressing Icon. A Queensland Treasure
For over six decades, Stefan Ackerie has shaped more than just hair—he’s shaped an industry, a legacy, and a brand synonymous with excellence. As the founder of Stefan Hair, Australia’s most recognised and celebrated salon group, Stefan has dedicated his life to the craft of hairdressing and the empowerment of those who practise it.

A Bold Beginning
Born in Lebanon and raised in Australia, Stefan’s journey into the world of hair began with a dream—and a pair of scissors. At just 17, he opened his first salon in Mackay, Queensland. It wasn’t long before his flair for styling, business acumen, and larger-than-life energy saw him expand into Brisbane, launching what would become the Stefan Hair legacy.

Building an Empire of Hair
By the 1980s, Stefan had transformed the hairdressing landscape in Australia. His name became iconic, with his salons defined by vibrant Rainbow Logo, exceptional service, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
Today, Stefan Hair is the largest privately owned hairdressing company in the Southern Hemisphere, with 33 salons, hundreds of stylists, and an unrivalled presence across Queensland.

The Stefan Classics Haircare Range – A Vision Bottled
Stefan Ackerie’s commitment to quality didn’t stop at the salon chair—it extended to the products used in every wash, style, and blow-dry. Recognising a gap in the market for salon-quality formulas that truly delivered results, Stefan personally led the development of his own signature line: the Stefan Classics.

Shaping the next generation of Hair Dressers
As a lifelong advocate for education and opportunity, Stefan Ackerie has always believed in nurturing the next generation of stylists from the ground up. That belief came to life through a long-standing and impactful partnership between Stefan Hair and TAFE Queensland.
Together, we’ve created one of the most successful hairdressing training programs in the country—blending real salon experience with certified industry education to give students the ultimate launchpad into their careers.
From pioneering advanced communication techniques with international stylists, to launching innovative product lines and partnering with global brands like Kerastase and L’Oréal. Stefan has always been a step ahead. His eye for talent and passion for education has also led to the creation of the Stefan Academy of Excellence, shaping the next generation of top-tier hair professionals.
Recognition & Honours
Stefan Ackerie’s impact has been recognised with some of the nation’s highest accolades, including:

Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)

Lord Mayor’s Business Lifetime Achievement Award

QUT Business Hall Of Fame

Key to the City of BrisBane
