Marc Valli appointed associate publishing director at Thames & Hudson

Marc Valli has joined Thames & Hudson as associate publishing director of its newly created general trade division. Valli will publish his own books and gifts aimed at the general consumer and will oversee the art, history and children’s lists, as well as Skittledog, the company’s new imprint for creative and lifestyle subjects.

Valli is the co-founder of retail and product development company Magma, and magazines Graphic and Elephant. He was the publisher of Laurence King’s art, gift and trade divisions until July 2022, and led the reinvention of the company’s publishing after the colouring boom ended in 2016.

He also helped establish Laurence King in the US and Australia, and enter the German and Dutch markets. In 2020, following its acquisition by Hachette UK, Valli headed the company’s integration into the Orion Group.

Valli said: “Personally, it feels a bit like coming full circle since, in 2000, when my business partner and I wanted to start Magma, Thames & Hudson was the first publishing house we approached and the first to believe in our plans and give us support. I have since followed the evolution of their programme very closely, and I am incredibly excited to be joining such a talented and successful team. 

“With its unique mix of tradition and innovation, and passionate commitment to high-quality publishing, Thames & Hudson is a dream platform for anyone wanting to create original illustrated books and gifts.”

Sophy Thompson, publisher and c.e.o. of Thames & Hudson, said: “Over his career, Marc has shown strategic vision and an ability to innovate and lead creative teams while engaging with all the commercial aspects of publishing. I am confident he will bring a fresh perspective to Thames & Hudson’s lists.”