LendingTree CEO and founder Doug Lebda dies in ATV accident at 55

LendingTree founder, president and CEO Doug Lebda was tragically killed in an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accident on Sunday, the Charlotte-based financial technology company announced Monday morning.

Lebda, 55, founded LendingTree in 1996 and built it into one of Charlotte’s most prominent firms, with annual revenue reaching nearly $900 million by 2024 and employing nearly 1,000 people.

The company expressed deep sorrow for the sudden loss of its visionary leader, whose relentless drive, innovation and passion permanently changed the financial services landscape. LendingTree operates an online marketplace that connects consumers with hundreds of financial institutions to compare rates on loans, credit cards, insurance and other financial products. Since its founding, it has helped millions of consumers simplify financial decisions and stimulate economic opportunity.
Following Lebda’s death, LendingTree’s board of directors appointed Scott Peyree, the company’s president and chief operating officer, as its new CEO, effective immediately. Lead Independent Director Steve Ozonian was elected chairman of the board. Peyree called the news “devastating” but highlighted the strong management team Lebda has built to carry forward the company’s mission and legacy.

Lebda was a prominent local businessman and philanthropist; In 2024, he donated $500,000 to Atrium Health to improve rural health care. A native of Pennsylvania, he holds a degree from Bucknell University and an MBA from the University of Virginia.

Charlotte and business leaders mourned Lebda’s death. Former Charlotte Mayor and North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory, a former LendingTree board member, lamented the loss of a “true friend” and one of America’s greatest entrepreneurs, calling Lebda’s choice of LendingTree’s headquarters in Charlotte a significant boon for the city. Lebda’s unwavering dedication has shaped the company’s culture and values ​​and touched millions of lives, LendingTree’s board of directors said in a statement. Innovation in financial accessibility. The board promised to honor his vision and continue the work he started with passion and integrity. Following the announcement, LendingTree’s shares fell more than 2%; This reflected investor uncertainty but maintained confidence in the leadership transition under Peyree.