LendingTree Founder Doug Lebda Dies in Tragic ATV Accident

On October 13, 2025, the online lending platform LendingTree announced the tragic passing of its founder and CEO, Doug Lebda. According to the company's statement, Lebda unexpectedly died in an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accident over the previous weekend.

LendingTree's board of directors expressed their deep sorrow over Lebda's untimely death, describing him as a "visionary leader whose relentless drive, innovation and passion transformed the financial services landscape, touching the lives of millions of consumers." The company's leadership team has now been restructured, with Chief Operating Officer Scott Peyree appointed as the new CEO, effective immediately. Additionally, lead independent director Steve Ozonian will step into Lebda's role as chairman of the board.

Lebda founded LendingTree in 1996 with the goal of simplifying the loan shopping process for consumers. The platform was launched nationally in 1998 and went public in 2000. LendingTree was later acquired by IAC/InterActiveCorp, before spinning off again as an independent company in 2008. Today, the company operates a central online marketplace that helps users find and compare loans for mortgages, credit cards, insurance, and more.