The University of Lodz, as an institution specialising, among other things, in finance is extremely pleased to have entered into this cooperation. It provides new tools for disputes with large financial institutions and deepens the financial knowledge of Poles. I don't wish for anyone to see overwhelming interest in the services of the Financial Ombudsman's Office, as that wouldn't be good news for any of us. However, I certainly see room for expanding our cooperation and our activities, primarily in the area of financial education. As a socially responsible university, we are open to such an eventuality
– said the university's bursar, dr hab. Michał Mackiewicz, Associate Professor at the University of Lodz, during the official opening of the office which was held today, 4 November 2025, at the university's Biedermann’s Palace. The event was attended by representatives of the academic community, authorities and financial institutions.
The difference between the Municipal Consumer Ombudsman (already operating in Lodz) and the Financial Ombudsman is that the latter specialises in assisting in disputes with insurance companies, banks, investment funds and other financial institutions. It can also assist not only consumers but also entrepreneurs and farmers.
Although the Financial Ombudsman cannot order a financial institution to change its decision, in some cases it can be done after presenting legal arguments in intervention proceedings or through arbitration. In each case, after the proceedings are concluded, the client receives full, free information regarding their rights in the given case. This allows them to make an informed decision regarding further action
– explained Dr Anna Mlostoń-Olszewska.
Our goal is to provide comprehensive assistance in the financial market to as many clients as possible. This is why we strive to expand beyond Warsaw. We have already opened offices in Lublin, Olsztyn and Gdańsk. The one in Lodz, covering two voivodeships, is the fourth one
– added Dr Michał Ziemiak, Financial Ombudsman.
Who is the Field Representative of the Financial Ombudsman in Lodz?
Dr Anna Mlostoń-Olszewska is a graduate of the Faculty of Law, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, and of the Jean Monnet Centre for European Studies, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń. She has also completed doctoral studies at the Institute of Law Sciences of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Warsaw. She defended her doctoral dissertation with distinction in the field of competition law in 2019. She is a legal advisor, academic lecturer and an author of scientific publications (including co-author of a commentary on the Act on Competition and Consumer Protection). For over 20 years, she has been associated with public administration, including as a legal advisor at the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) Branch in Lodz, the Municipal Consumer Ombudsman in Lodz and chief specialist at the Office of the Financial Ombudsman.
More information about the activities of the Financial Ombudsman's Office in Lodz: biuroterenowelodz@rf.gov.pl
Source: Financial Ombudsman Office
Edit: Press Office, University of Lodz
Photos: Kacper Szczepaniak, Centre for Brand Communications, University of Lodz
