Charlotte, North Carolina, January 17, 2026
LendingTree, Inc. has appointed Scott Peyree as its new CEO after the passing of founder Doug Lebda. Peyree, previously COO and President, aims to enhance the company’s consumer-centric mission alongside newly appointed leaders Ian Smith and Laura Nelson. These leadership changes are set to honor Lebda’s legacy while pushing the company towards innovation and economic growth, which is reflected positively in current stock trading.
Charlotte, North Carolina
LendingTree Appoints Scott Peyree as New CEO Following Doug Lebda’s Passing
Charlotte-based LendingTree, Inc. has recently announced the appointment of Scott Peyree as its new Chief Executive Officer, following the tragic passing of founder Doug Lebda in an ATV accident on October 12, 2025. Peyree, who previously held the positions of Chief Operating Officer and President within the company, brings over two decades of experience in the financial services industry, positioning him well to lead the company into its next chapter.
Alongside Peyree’s promotion, LendingTree has made notable leadership changes with the appointments of Ian Smith as Chief Operating Officer and Laura Nelson as Head of Insurance. Smith, formerly Senior Vice President of Insurance, will now be responsible for the company’s day-to-day operations, while Nelson, previously Senior Vice President of Sales, will lead the development of the company’s insurance marketplace strategies.
Honoring Foundational Vision
The leadership transitions at LendingTree aim to not only honor the legacy of Doug Lebda, whose vision revolutionized the financial services marketplace, but also to ensure continuity in the company’s mission. Lebda founded LendingTree in 1996 after facing challenges with obtaining his first mortgage, and he aspired to create a transparent platform where lenders compete for consumer business. This groundbreaking approach has put the power of choice back in the hands of consumers, fostering informed financial decisions.
Scott Peyree’s extensive background and leadership experience are set to further enhance the company’s commitment to providing comprehensive financial solutions. Under his guidance, LendingTree intends to continue empowering consumers through its innovative online marketplace.
Investor Confidence in New Leadership
As of January 17, 2026, LendingTree’s stock (NASDAQ: TREE) is trading at $68.01, reflecting a degree of confidence from investors in the company’s new leadership and strategic direction. The dedication to nurturing a responsive, consumer-centric environment remains a priority, laying the groundwork for sustained growth and innovation.
Recognizing Entrepreneurial Strength
The spirit of entrepreneurship is alive in Charlotte, as demonstrated by LendingTree’s resilience and commitment to adapting to market needs amidst changes in leadership. By focusing on creating a less regulated environment that supports small businesses, initiatives like those taken by LendingTree can lead to improved economic growth, job creation, and community development.
The Importance of Leadership in Economic Development
As firms like LendingTree continue to innovate in ways that foster consumer trust and satisfaction, they set benchmarks for other companies within North Carolina and beyond. Local entrepreneurs can derive inspiration from such leadership transitions, seeing firsthand the positive impact of visionary guidance and stable management in overcoming adversity and achieving growth.
Looking Ahead
As the new leadership team at LendingTree moves forward, there is much potential for strengthening the company’s position in the financial services marketplace. Their focus on innovation, coupled with a clear mission to assist consumers, will likely contribute positively to the broader economic landscape of Charlotte and the York County economy as a whole.
Conclusion
The recent changes at LendingTree mark a significant milestone in the company’s history, as it continues its mission of empowering consumers while honoring the legacy of its founder. By supporting local businesses and fostering innovation, communities like Rock Hill, SC, can look forward to a prosperous economic future. It’s crucial for residents to engage with and support local entrepreneurs as they navigate the evolving economic landscape and contribute to the health of our local economy.
FAQ
Q: Who is the new CEO of LendingTree?
A: Scott Peyree has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of LendingTree, succeeding founder Doug Lebda.
Q: What were the recent leadership changes at LendingTree?
A: In addition to Scott Peyree becoming CEO, Ian Smith was promoted to Chief Operating Officer, and Laura Nelson was appointed Head of Insurance.
Q: What is LendingTree’s mission?
A: LendingTree aims to empower consumers to make informed financial decisions through its online marketplace, connecting them with various financial products and services.
Q: What is the background of Doug Lebda, LendingTree’s founder?
A: Doug Lebda founded LendingTree in 1996 after a challenging experience obtaining his first mortgage, aiming to create a transparent, digital marketplace for consumers.
Q: What is the current stock price of LendingTree?
A: As of January 17, 2026, LendingTree’s stock (NASDAQ: TREE) is trading at $68.01.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| New CEO Appointment | Scott Peyree appointed as CEO, succeeding founder Doug Lebda. |
| Leadership Promotions | Ian Smith promoted to COO; Laura Nelson appointed Head of Insurance. |
| Company Mission | Empowering consumers to make informed financial decisions through an online marketplace. |
| Founder Background | Doug Lebda founded LendingTree in 1996 after a challenging mortgage experience. |
| Current Stock Price | As of January 17, 2026, LendingTree’s stock (NASDAQ: TREE) is trading at $68.01. |
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