David Johnston

I'm an experienced Manager with a strong background in team leadership, administrative coordination, and facilities management. I have extensive experience overseeing daily operations, vendor contracts, staffing, budgeting, events, and compliance. I thrive in fast-paced environments and take pride in creating a well-run, supportive workspace, and fostering strong relationships with staff and clients. 

Professional Experience

Founder - Design & Operations

Baffle Box Games, London, UK | 2023 – Present  

• Managed daily operations, financial oversight, and logistics for a small business. 
• Managed vendor sourcing, procurement, and contract oversight for creative production.
• Planned and staffed public-facing booths at high-traffic industry expos.
• Wrote, designed, and manufactured board game and related products, meeting quality and regulatory standards.

Primary Caregiver  

Stay-at-Home Parent, London, UK | 2015 – 2023  

• Developed advanced skills in planning, multitasking, ego management, conflict resolution, and the ability to dig deep.

Software Developer  

Eight Bit Studios, Chicago, IL | 2012 – 2015  

• Designed, developed, and coded iPhone applications, ensuring user-friendly experiences.
• Collaborated on app architecture through team scrum and whiteboarding sessions.
• Worked closely with teams to integrate UI/UX, external devices, backend services, and third-party APIs.
• Debugged and optimized applications for performance.

General Manager  

California Clipper Lounge, Chicago, IL | 2004 – 2013  

• Oversaw the operations of a historic venue, managing staff, entertainment, inventory, payroll, and budget.  
• Scouted musical talent and organized events, ensuring seamless execution and team coordination.  
• Coordinated maintenance, vendor services, and security operations. 
• Led venue compliance, including health and safety measures.
• Quadrupled business within the first year.  
• Turned a forgotten historical bar into one of Esquire Magazine’s Best 50 Bars in America (2007).
  
   

Key Skills & Competencies

• Business & Facilities Management – Hiring, staff, vendor contracts, security, and office logistics.  
• Administrative & Event Coordination – Office resources, supplies, and communication, and staff events.  
• Team Leadership – Strong interpersonal skills in managing teams and external vendors. 
• Budgeting & Invoice Management – Office expenses, purchase orders, and payroll.  
• Health & Safety Compliance – Compliance with local regulations.  
• Procurement & Vendor Oversight – Select vendors, negotiate contracts, and coordinate purchasing.

Certificates & Software

• PRINCE2, Harvard CS50 (Computer Science & Web Programming), Microsoft Office Suite, Photoshop, Publisher, VS Code, AI Tools

Education

St. John’s College

Santa Fe, NM  

Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts (Philosophy & Mathematics)  

• Great Books Program – Rigorous interdisciplinary study of philosophy, mathematics, science, literature, and languages.  Strong emphasis on critical thinking, analytical problem-solving, and written and verbal communication skills.