Head of the Corporate Board | Governance, Vision & Long-Term Growth Strategy
In the fast-moving world of fine art investment, where innovation often races ahead of regulation, Felix Valentine stands as a quiet but steadying presence. As Head of the Corporate Board at The London Art Exchange, Felix plays a crucial role in ensuring that creativity and commerce are not only balanced but aligned with long-term integrity.
Behind the gallery’s sharp rise as a respected art investment house lies Felix’s ability to think structurally, act deliberately, and lead without fanfare. His calm authority and methodical approach underpin the decision-making processes that allow LAX to operate with clarity, discipline, and vision.
A Career Built on Strategy and Integrity
Felix brings to LAX an extensive background in corporate governance and strategic consultancy. Having worked with top-tier financial institutions and private firms, his expertise lies in helping organisations grow without losing sight of their foundational values. His knowledge of risk management, policy design, and sustainable expansion has made him a trusted figure across sectors.
Drawn to the cultural significance of art and the potential of tangible assets, Felix joined The London Art Exchange during a critical period of transition and growth. His role was, and remains, to create the infrastructure necessary to support innovation—while protecting the business from volatility and short-term thinking.
Leading with Clarity
At LAX, Felix chairs the Corporate Board, overseeing governance, compliance, and strategic development. His remit includes shaping internal policy, reviewing operational decisions, and ensuring every department is aligned with the company’s broader vision. In a business where creative ambition is high, his presence brings stability and long-term perspective.
Felix is deeply involved in cross-department collaboration. He works closely with Christian Shaw on new business initiatives, advises Andrew Bailey on risk structures within client portfolios, and provides ongoing guidance to senior advisors navigating complex client needs. His leadership style is defined by subtlety: he guides more than he directs, and listens more than he speaks.
Trusted by Clients and Colleagues Alike
While not typically client-facing, Felix is frequently requested by institutional partners and family office clients looking for reassurance in governance, succession planning, or policy-based acquisition models. His ability to explain complexity in measured, thoughtful language makes him invaluable during large-scale acquisition conversations or contract finalisations.
Internally, he is seen as a mentor and sounding board. Whether he’s advising the creative team on ethical acquisition policy or helping finance colleagues navigate evolving regulations, Felix operates with consistency and care. His desk, always organised, is a symbol of his overall approach: intentional, uncluttered, and focused.
A Measured View of Growth
For Felix, success lies not in explosive expansion, but in sustainable progress. He believes in scaling thoughtfully—choosing the right partnerships, asking the right questions, and ensuring the company’s cultural values remain intact as it grows.
He is currently leading a multi-year roadmap to refine LAX’s internal training, formalise its governance code, and strengthen international compliance practices as the gallery’s presence expands. His strategic contributions are often quiet, but they ripple across the business with lasting impact.
A Mind for the Long Game
Outside of LAX, Felix is known for his love of literature, early morning walks, and classical music. He values reflection and clear thinking, traits that are evident in his work. While others focus on what’s trending in the art world, Felix focuses on what will endure.
His calm leadership continues to shape LAX into a resilient, respected institution. In an industry often driven by spectacle, Felix reminds everyone that true influence comes from what you build quietly—and what you protect as it grows.