With great sadness, we say goodbye to our colleague and dear friend, Mateusz Chmielewski
It is with profound sadness that we share the news that Mateusz Chmielewski passed away on 6 May 2026.
As Partner and Co-Head of International Business at SSW, Mateusz played a defining role in shaping the firm’s international strategy and growth. Beyond the firm, he was deeply engaged in building bridges between Poland and the global business and legal communities. He was a co-founder of Poland’s Industry Chamber for Dual-Use and Defence Solutions (PIDU), Chairman of the Polish-Japanese Cooperation Committee, and a Council Member of the International Bar Association. His energy, entrepreneurial spirit, and unique ability to connect people and ideas made him truly unique both within the legal profession and across the broader international business community.
Mateusz had an exceptional ability to anticipate opportunities before others recognized them – a creative thinker who instinctively connected the dots between business, law, innovation, and international cooperation. His vision of SSW as an international law firm based in Poland was matched by his determination and capacity to act, build, and deliver tangible solutions. He turned ideas into reality, brought people together around common goals, and was a genuine force for good in every community and initiative he touched.
Mateusz believed deeply that Poland was going through a historic moment – a defining opportunity to strengthen its place on the global stage and to bring the world closer to Poland. He pursued this mission with extraordinary passion, optimism, and determination, inspiring many around him to think bigger, move faster, and look beyond conventional boundaries.
In an exceptionally short time, Mateusz achieved more than many do in a lifetime. Through the institutions, initiatives, and communities he helped create Mateusz left behind a meaningful and enduring legacy. Mateusz advised on and led on a number of landmark transactions and strategic projects for clients, helping shape important business relationships and investments both in Poland and internationally. His leadership, ideas, and ability to turn vision into action will continue to influence people and institutions for years to come.
We will remember Mateusz for his generosity, warmth, openness to others, and extraordinary ability to connect with everyone around him. He approached life with curiosity, courage, boundless energy, and what seemed like an endless stream of ideas and plans.
Today, our thoughts are first and foremost with his family and loved ones. We extend to them our deepest sympathy and support during this unimaginably difficult time.
Mateusz will live on in our hearts and memories forever.
