Jon-Paul R. Johnson
St. Louis,Missouri
Summary
Results-driven nonprofit and public affairs executive with extensive experience in development, government relations, strategic communications, and community engagement. Proven ability to build high-impact partnerships, secure funding, lead cross-functional teams, and drive initiatives that strengthen organizations and communities. Skilled in stakeholder engagement, grant development, public policy, and organizational leadership, with a strong track record of advancing mission-driven goals through strategic planning, relationship management, and collaborative problem-solving.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Development
PreventEd
St Louis, MO
2024 - Current
- Successfully plan and execute special events that raise awareness about organization's mission while generating new sources of support.
- Author funding requests and grant applications to obtain additional funds for operating needs.
- Foster culture of philanthropy within organization by engaging board members and staff in development initiatives.
- Optimize use of CRM systems for accurate tracking of donor information, gift processing, and relationship management.
- Enhance donor relationships with personalized communication plans and regular updates on project progress.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align programmatic objectives with funding priorities for maximum impact.
Deputy Director
Office of Violence Prevention
St. Louis, MO
2026 - 2026
- Supported Commissioner in advancing OVP's strategic vision, operational priorities, and long-term sustainability efforts related to violence prevention, intervention, reentry, and diversion initiatives.
- Oversaw day-to-day operations, staff coordination, and cross-sector partnerships to ensure alignment between city agencies, community organizations, public health entities, and regional stakeholders.
- Monitored program implementation and performance through qualitative and quantitative evaluation methods, ensuring accountability, compliance, and measurable impact on violence reduction outcomes.
- Assisted in resource development, budget oversight, strategic communications, and organizational capacity-building efforts to sustain and expand OVP initiatives and the broader Community Violence Intervention ecosystem.
Director of Government Relations
Beyond Housing
St. Louis, MO
2023 - 2024
- Liaison to elected leadership, strategic partners, and residents impacting 24:1 footprint in North St. Louis County.
- Directed communication and administration of 24:1 Municipal Partnership and its related committees and initiatives.
- Managed departmental operations including budget, evaluations, grant deliverables, logistics, onboarding/offboarding, staff, and systems management.
- Led GRACE strategic plan development and implementation in alignment with Beyond Housing 2023-25 strategic plan.
- Established robust network of industry contacts by attending conferences, seminars, and other professional events regularly.
Director
Venture Café St. Louis
St. Louis, MO
2021 - 2023
- Led and oversaw strategic planning, impact measurement, operational budget management, and community engagement.
- Developed innovative formats for content distribution and community connections.
- Identified and partnered with local/global ecosystem leaders to build a diverse and inclusive community.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
Director of Communications
Office of the License Collector
St Louis, MO
2018 - 2020
- Negotiated partnerships with event organizers to secure strategic speaking opportunities for License Collector.
- Reviewed and engaged all activities regarding potential Office matters at Board of Aldermen.
- Interacted frequently with elected and government officials of the City concerning legislative priorities and initiatives impacting th Office.
- Prepared Office personnel for legislative committees and administrative agency hearings; provide relevant public, media and government-related testimony.
- Championed internal culture initiatives that fostered a more inclusive workplace environment.
Assistant to the Comptroller
Office of the Comptroller
St. Louis, MO
2017 - 2018
- Managed legislation from Office of the Comptroller; Liaison to the Board of Alderpersons.
- Assisted in development and revision of internal program policies, procedures, guidelines, and financial controls.
- Assisted in development and monitoring of Office budget.
- Staff representative for constituent services, ward and neighborhood meetings, and governmental affairs.
Special Assistant to the Mayor
Office of the Mayor
St. Louis, MO
2015 - 2017
- Managed all legislation from Executive Branch; Liaison to the Board of Alderpersons.
- Select Committee Designee for Personnel Department, City Counselor's Office and Assessor's Office; Crime Commission Member.
- Liaison to the Planning and Urban Design Agency.
- Point-person for appointments to citywide boards and commissions.
- Designated representative for Mayor at events.
- Assisted in managing LGBTQAI+ related events and services, including by not limited to PrideFest, St. Louis Convention and Visitors' Convention Task Force, and Human Rights Campaign Gala.
- Constituent services; media outreach; governmental affairs.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY
St. Louis, MODiploma - College Curriculum
SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL
St. Louis, MOSkills
Innovation: Introducing new ideas and approaches to improve processes and performance
Leadership: Experience in guiding & motivating teams to achieve goals
Analytic Skills: Strong ability to assess and interpret information to make informed decisions
Problem-Solving: Skilled in identifying issues and developing effective solutions
Adaptability: Ability to adjust to new situations and changes quickly
Communications: Effective verbal and written communication with clarity and professionalism
Team-building: Ability to work collaboratively and identify strengths in others that will lead to team's success
Project Management: Experience in planning, executing, and overseeing projects effectively
Emotional Intelligence: Understanding and managing own emotions and empathizing with others
Timeline
Diploma - College Curriculum
SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL
Director of Development
PreventEd
2024 - Current
Deputy Director
Office of Violence Prevention
2026 - 2026
Director of Government Relations
Beyond Housing
2023 - 2024
Director
Venture Café St. Louis
2021 - 2023
Director of Communications
Office of the License Collector
2018 - 2020
Assistant to the Comptroller
Office of the Comptroller
2017 - 2018
Special Assistant to the Mayor
Office of the Mayor
2015 - 2017
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY
Community Service
- Black Caucus of the Missouri Democratic Party, (former) CHAIR
- St. Vincent Home for Children Board of Directors, MEMBER
- Alltru Credit Union Community Development Board of Directors, MEMBER
- Generate Health Advocacy Advisory Committee, (former) MEMBER
- Young Friends of the Missouri Historical Society Steering Committee, (former) MEMBER
- Gene Slay Girls and Boys Club Steering Committee, (former) MEMBER
- New Leadership Council, ALUM
- American Civil Liberties Union, MEMBER, (former) CONSULTANT
- Hillary Clinton for President ’16 Campaign, ADVISOR
- Russ Carnahan for Congress ’10 Campaign, ORGANIZER
- Congressman W. Lacy Clay’s Office ’09 (St. Louis), INTERN
- Barack Obama for President ’08 Coordinated Campaign, ORGANIZER