What Is LendingTree? Unveiling Doug Lebda’s Net Worth & Career Following Tragic ATV Accident

LendingTree’s chairman and chief executive officer, Doug Lebda, has died following an all-terrain vehicle accident that occurred on Sunday, the company confirmed. While details surrounding the incident remain undisclosed, the firm stated that the accident took place on a family farm in North Carolina.

Headquartered in North Carolina, LendingTree operates as an online marketplace connecting users with multiple loan providers. Through the platform, borrowers can evaluate and select suitable options across various loan categories, including personal, business, student, and mortgage loans, as well as credit cards, according to an October 13, 2025, report by the Charlotte Observer. The company also offers educational resources covering topics such as medical debt and retirement planning.

As reported by Benzinga, Doug Lebda held an estimated net worth of $305 million. His LinkedIn profile indicates that he founded LendingTree in 1996, introducing the concept of banks competing for customers, rather than customers seeking out the best financial deals independently. Prior to establishing LendingTree, Lebda served as an auditor and consultant at PriceWaterhouseCoopers and later co-founded Tykoon, a financial services company.

In a statement to People Magazine, Lebda’s wife, Megan, described her late husband as “compassionate and generous.” She added that Doug found joy in “seeing others succeed,” believing in their potential and celebrating their achievements. Megan also expressed gratitude to family and friends for their continued support toward her and the couple’s three children during this difficult time.

Following Lebda’s sudden passing, LendingTree announced the appointment of Scott Peyree, the company’s chief operating officer, as its new president and chief executive officer. Peyree referred to Lebda’s death as “devastating” in an official statement.

According to the Charlotte Observer, LendingTree employs approximately 1,000 people, with its projected revenue expected to reach between $1 billion and $1.05 billion by the end of 2025. The company’s earnings report is scheduled for October 30, 2025.

In a message shared with NBC News, the LendingTree board of directors remembered Lebda as a “visionary leader” whose “drive, passion, and innovation” profoundly shaped the company. They emphasized that his influence would continue to guide their work.

As reported by Newsweek, LendingTree shares fell more than 4% after the announcement of Lebda’s passing.

Doug Lebda was 55 years old. He is survived by his wife, Megan, and their three daughters.

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