Doug Lebda, LendingTree C.E.O. and Founder, Dies in ATV Accident

Doug Lebda, the visionary founder and CEO of LendingTree, a pioneering online loans marketplace, has tragically passed away at the age of 55 following an all-terrain vehicle accident on his family’s farm in North Carolina on Sunday. The news was confirmed by a company spokeswoman.

In the wake of Lebda’s untimely death, LendingTree has announced that its Chief Operating Officer, Scott Peyree, will take over as the new CEO, ensuring continuity and leadership for the company Lebda founded nearly three decades ago.

Lebda’s legacy is one of innovation and transformation in the financial services sector. Under his relentless drive and passion, LendingTree has touched the lives of millions of consumers. The company’s board paid tribute to Lebda, describing him as a visionary leader who revolutionized the financial services landscape.

The story of LendingTree began in 1996 when Lebda, frustrated by his own difficulties in securing a mortgage for his home in Pittsburgh, saw an opportunity to create a platform that would simplify and streamline the lending process. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, LendingTree quickly became a significant player in the financial services industry, and Lebda made the city his home.

Pat McCrory, former Mayor of Charlotte and Governor of North Carolina, remembered Lebda fondly, highlighting their shared passion for politics and Lebda’s commitment to entrepreneurship in the state. McCrory, who served on LendingTree’s board, praised Lebda for resisting pressure to relocate the company to other cities, underscoring his dedication to North Carolina.

During the dot-com boom, LendingTree went public, and in 2003, it was acquired by IAC, leading to Lebda’s relocation to New York. However, in 2008, IAC spun off the company, allowing Lebda to reclaim the reins as CEO.

Beyond his professional achievements, Lebda was known for his love of football and his role as a minority owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers. His passing has sent shockwaves through the business and sports communities.

Scott Peyree, the newly appointed CEO, expressed his devastation at Lebda’s death but emphasized his commitment to continuing Lebda’s vision for LendingTree. “I look forward to leading our team and continuing our shared vision with Doug into the future,” Peyree stated.

Lebda is survived by his wife, Megan, and their three daughters, Rachel, Abby, and Sophia. In a heartfelt statement, Megan Lebda conveyed the family’s gratitude for the outpouring of love and support, adding, “Doug’s legacy will continue in the company he built, the lives he touched, and the example he set for all of us to lead with kindness, courage, and compassion.”