Death of LendingTree founder and CEO Douglas Lebda in ATV crash

The CEO and founder of LendingTree Inc., Douglas Lebda, tragically passed away at the age of 55 following an accident involving an all-terrain vehicle on his family farm in North Carolina. LendingTree's board of directors expressed deep sadness at the sudden loss of Doug. He leaves behind his wife, Megan Lebda, and three daughters. Lebda launched LendingTree in 1996 after experiencing the challenges of obtaining his first mortgage, leading the company through various milestones, including its initial public offering and eventual sale to IAC Inc. He later returned to LendingTree after it became an independent company, continuing to steer its success. The company, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, provides a platform connecting customers with a range of financial partners for products such as mortgages, auto loans, personal loans, and more. Scott Peyree, LendingTree's chief operating officer and president, has taken over as president and CEO, appointed by the board of directors. Steve Ozonian, the lead independent director, has been appointed as the board chairman. Peyree highlighted the strong management team Lebda put in place at LendingTree as part of his lasting legacy. Lebda held a degree from Bucknell University and an MBA from the University of Virginia, Darden School of Business, and had previous experience as an auditor and consultant before founding the company.