LendingTree CEO and founder Doug Lebda dies in ATV accident
3 minute readPublished: Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at 12:46 am
LendingTree Founder Doug Lebda Dies in ATV Accident
NEW YORK – Doug Lebda, the founder and CEO of the online loan platform LendingTree, has died in an all-terrain vehicle accident. The company announced the news on Monday, confirming that Lebda, 55, passed away on Sunday. The accident occurred at a family farm.
Lebda founded LendingTree in 1996, driven by his own difficulties in securing a mortgage. The platform, which launched nationally in 1998, aimed to simplify the loan shopping process. LendingTree went public in 2000 and was later acquired by IAC/InterActiveCorp before spinning off again in 2008.
Under Lebda's leadership, LendingTree evolved into a central online marketplace, connecting users with loans for mortgages, credit cards, insurance, and other financial products. The company also owns brands like CompareCards and Value Penguin.
Beyond LendingTree, Lebda co-founded Tykoon in 2010, a financial services platform for children and families. Prior to his entrepreneurial ventures, he worked as an auditor and consultant for PriceWaterhouseCoopers.
Following Lebda's death, Scott Peyree, the company's chief operating officer and president, has been appointed CEO, effective immediately. Steve Ozonian, the lead independent director, will assume Lebda's role as chairman of the board. Shares of LendingTree experienced a decline in trading on Monday.
Lebda is survived by his wife, Megan, and their three daughters.
BNN's Perspective:
The loss of Doug Lebda is a significant one for the financial technology sector. His vision and entrepreneurial spirit were instrumental in shaping the online lending landscape. While the transition at LendingTree will undoubtedly be challenging, the company's established presence and the appointment of experienced leadership suggest a continued focus on serving its customers. The impact of his work will be felt for years to come.
Keywords: Doug Lebda, LendingTree, CEO, death, ATV accident, online loan platform, founder, Scott Peyree, Steve Ozonian, finance, mortgage, credit cards, insurance, Tykoon, IAC/InterActiveCorp, CompareCards, Value Penguin