LENDINGTREE ANNOUNCES THE UNEXPECTED PASSING OF COMPANY FOUNDER, CHAIRMAN AND CEO DOUG LEBDA
Rhea-AI Summary
LendingTree (NASDAQ:TREE) announced the unexpected passing of founder, chairman and CEO Doug Lebda on Oct 12, 2025, in an all-terrain vehicle accident.
Effective immediately, Scott Peyree, chief operating officer and president, was appointed president and CEO, and Steve Ozonian, lead independent director and board member since 2008, was appointed chairman. The board expressed commitment to uphold Lebda's vision and to work closely with the new leadership team.
Positive
- Immediate CEO succession: Scott Peyree appointed effective immediately
- Immediate chairman appointment: Steve Ozonian named chairman
- Board commitment to uphold founder's vision and leadership continuity
Negative
- Unexpected passing of founder and CEO creates short-term leadership uncertainty
- Potential investor sentiment volatility following sudden executive loss
Insights
Sudden CEO death; board installed internal successors to maintain continuity.
The Board announced the unexpected passing of Doug Lebda on
Key dependencies include the new CEO's ability to retain management cohesion and the Board's follow-through on honoring the stated legacy. Short-term governance tasks will focus on confirming executive authorities, communications with employees and partners, and any regulatory or SEC filings required for the leadership change.
Watch for formal regulatory disclosures and any Board communications over the next few weeks that clarify interim authority, delegated signatories, and succession planning; expect these items within a trading-cycle horizon (days to weeks).
Leadership transitioned internally; operational execution continuity emphasized.
The release states that Scott Peyree, the Chief Operating Officer and President, becomes CEO and that Steve Ozonian becomes Chairman, both effective immediately, which by fact suggests management intends operational continuity. The Board credited the existing management team and singled out Scott's momentum and commitment.
Risks remain around short-term disruption from the unexpected event and external stakeholder reactions; the company has not announced any changes to strategy, guidance, or financial results in this release. Critical near-term items include employee stabilization, client and partner outreach, and any required filings; these actions typically occur within days to weeks.
Monitor official filings and any statements that disclose changes to company guidance, executive delegation, or timeline for a permanent CEO confirmation over the next
Scott Peyree, the Company's Chief Operating Officer and President, has been appointed by the Board to serve as the Company's President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.
Lead Independent Director, Steve Ozonian, has been appointed by the Board to serve as the Chairman of the Board, effective immediately. Mr. Ozonian joined the Board in 2008.
The Board of Directors issued the following statement: "We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Doug. Doug was a visionary leader whose relentless drive, innovation and passion transformed the financial services landscape, touching the lives of millions of consumers. Since founding LendingTree in 1996, Doug dedicated himself to building a company rooted in consumer empowerment, championing a mission to simplify financial decisions and fostering economic opportunity for all.
Doug's unwavering commitment to our team, customers and partners shaped LendingTree's culture and values and permanently changed the way in which consumers access financial products. His passion will continue to inspire us as we move forward together. We extend our deepest sympathies to Doug's family and loved ones during this difficult time.
The Board will work closely with Scott and the leadership team to honor Doug's vision. We are committed to upholding his legacy and continuing the work he began with passion, integrity and dedication."
Steve Ozonian commented further: "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."
Scott Peyree also stated: "The news of losing Doug was devastating. But one of the most immediate impacts of his legacy is the strong management team he put in place at LendingTree. I look forward to leading our team and continuing our shared vision with Doug into the future."
About LendingTree
LendingTree, Inc. is the parent of LendingTree, LLC and several companies owned by LendingTree, LLC (collectively, "LendingTree").
LendingTree is one of the nation's largest, most experienced online financial platforms, created to give consumers the power to win financially. LendingTree provides customers with access to the best offers on loans, credit cards, insurance and more through its network of approximately 430 financial partners. Since its founding, LendingTree has helped millions of customers obtain financing, save money, and improve their financial and credit health in their personal journeys. With a portfolio of innovative products and tools and personalized financial recommendations, LendingTree helps customers achieve everyday financial wins. LendingTree, Inc. is headquartered in
For more information, please visit www.lendingtree.com.
Contact
press@lendingtree.com
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SOURCE LendingTree, Inc.
FAQ
What happened to LendingTree CEO Doug Lebda on Oct 12, 2025 (TREE)?
Who is the new CEO of LendingTree (NASDAQ:TREE) after Doug Lebda's death?
Who became chairman of the board at LendingTree (TREE) after Oct 13, 2025?
Will LendingTree (TREE) maintain the founder's strategic vision after Doug Lebda's passing?
How might Doug Lebda's unexpected death affect LendingTree (TREE) operations?
