Mon Oct 13 15:30:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the text:

**Summary:**

LendingTree founder, Chairman, and CEO Doug Lebda passed away unexpectedly in an ATV accident. The company announced his death, expressing deep sorrow and condolences to his family. COO and President Scott Peyree has been immediately appointed as the new President and CEO, and Lead Independent Director Steve Ozonian has been named Chairman of the Board. The Board of Directors emphasized Lebda’s visionary leadership and commitment to consumer empowerment, stating they will work to uphold his legacy. Peyree acknowledged the strong management team Lebda built and his commitment to LendingTree’s vision.

**News Article:**

**LendingTree Founder and CEO Doug Lebda Dies in Accident; Peyree Appointed Successor**

**CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Oct. 13, 2025** – LendingTree, Inc. is mourning the sudden loss of its founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer, Doug Lebda, who passed away unexpectedly yesterday in an all-terrain vehicle accident. Lebda founded the online lending platform in 1996 and was widely recognized for his vision in transforming the financial services industry and empowering consumers.

“We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Doug,” stated the LendingTree Board of Directors in a released statement. “Doug was a visionary leader whose relentless drive, innovation and passion transformed the financial services landscape, touching the lives of millions of consumers… His passion will continue to inspire us as we move forward together.”

Effective immediately, Scott Peyree, previously the company’s Chief Operating Officer and President, has been appointed as the new President and CEO. Steve Ozonian, Lead Independent Director, will assume the role of Chairman of the Board.

Peyree acknowledged the legacy of Lebda and the strong management team he built at LendingTree. “The news of losing Doug was devastating… I look forward to leading our team and continuing our shared vision with Doug into the future,” said Peyree.

Ozonian added, “We sincerely thank Scott Peyree for the momentum powered by his outstanding commitment and focus at LendingTree. We have the utmost confidence in his ability to continue to lead LendingTree into the future.”

LendingTree, headquartered in Charlotte, NC, connects consumers with a network of approximately 430 financial partners, offering access to loans, credit cards, insurance, and other financial products. The company said it remains committed to its mission of simplifying financial decisions and fostering economic opportunity for all.

The Board said it will work closely with Peyree and the leadership team to honor Lebda’s vision and uphold his legacy.

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