Samantha Jo Johnson
Chicago
Summary
Dynamic event and venue production professional rooted in the Chicago performing arts scene, with expertise in hospitality, coordinating cross-functional production teams, managing show logistics, and creating seamless guest and artist experiences. Brings proficiency, poise, authenticity, and heart to all the gigs.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Director
Graveface Museum & Records
Chicago
01.2025 - Current
- Produced and coordinated public-facing events from concept to closeout, overseeing artist bookings, vendor relations, and guest experience.
- Act as onsite MOD and lead daily operations and event production for a hybrid oddities museum, record shop, and performance venue.
- Book and manage private and public programming, liaising with artists, vendors, and city agencies.
- Co-wrote and submitted city grant proposals; assisted in budget realignment and restructuring for shop sustainability.
- Introduced scheduling and payroll software across owner's businesses to support backend infrastructure.
- Supervised staff during immersive events, concerts, and pop-up exhibitions, ensuring smooth logistics and hospitality.
Lead Venue Manager
Sleeping Village
Chicago
06.2021 - Current
- Acted as Lead HM and MOD for almost all calendar show and events.
- Oversaw show production and coordinated audio, lighting, and stage staff at a 350-capacity music venue. Resolved safety issues and supervising guest services and hospitality.
- Advanced logistics with artists and tour managers, managed load-ins/loadouts, and ensured artist satisfaction.
- Assisted with labor scheduling, vendor coordination, and facilities management for events and venue operations.
Education
Associate of Arts - Arts Administration & Policy
School of The Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago, ILSkills
- Event Production
- Event and Venue Management
- Artist & Vendor Relations
- Technical Coordination
- Budget Management
- Staff Management
- Hospitality
- Logistics
- Visual/Experiential Curation
- Efficiency in MS Excel
- Google Suite
- POS Operational Systems
- Grant Writing
- Venue Operations
- Team Leadership
Timeline
Assistant Director
Graveface Museum & Records
01.2025 - Current
Lead Venue Manager
Sleeping Village
06.2021 - Current
Associate of Arts - Arts Administration & Policy
School of The Art Institute of Chicago