Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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AKILA GUNARATHNA

Huntsville,AL

Summary

Experienced hospitality leader with over a decade in multi-property hotel operations, food & beverage management, and full P&L ownership. Proven track record in driving financial results, leading cross-functional teams, elevating guest satisfaction, and overseeing day-to-day operations in both independent and branded environments. As Complex Director of Operations for The Westin and Element Huntsville, I’ve served in an acting GM capacity, directly accountable for hotel performance and strategic execution. Passionate about building strong teams, creating culture-driven environments, and delivering exceptional guest experiences. Ready to transition into a full General Manager role with confidence and momentum.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience

Work History

Complex Director of Operations

WESTIN HUNTSVILLE & ELEMENT HUNTSVILLE
Huntsville, AL
02.2024 - Current
  • Oversaw daily hotel operations across both properties, ensuring brand compliance, financial performance, and operational excellence.
  • Acted as General Manager in GA's absence, handling owner communication, financial reporting, and leadership team management.
  • Led cost control initiatives and continuous improvement processes across all departments, improving GOP margin by 5.6% YOY, achieving a 52-53% flow-through rate on incremental revenue.
  • Collaborated with HR to develop high-performing teams and improve service culture.
  • Negotiated vendor contracts, implemented capital improvements, and ensured safety and compliance standards.

Director of Food & Beverage

MARRIOTT CHATTANOOGA CONVENTION CENTER
Chattanooga, TN
08.2022 - 02.2024
  • Managed all aspects of food and beverage operations including budgeting, staffing, and guest experience enhancement.
  • Spearheaded revenue-generating strategies and promotional initiatives in coordination with sales and marketing.
  • Improved guest satisfaction scores by implementing menu innovation and elevating service standards.
  • Oversaw financial forecasting, inventory controls, and departmental training programs.

Director of F&B / Executive Chef

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON
Brentwood, TN
08.2019 - 08.2022
  • Directed full-service hotel F&B operations, from restaurant and banquet to in-room dining.
  • Reduced costs by 7% through waste control and efficient labor scheduling.
  • Delivered outstanding QA scores and led successful execution of high-volume events.
  • Mentored and developed culinary and FOH teams, building a culture of excellence.

Executive Sous Chef

WESTIN
Chattanooga, TN
12.2017 - 08.2022
  • Managed large-scale kitchen operations and led menu development for seasonal offerings.
  • Elevated brand experience with the launch of chef’s table dining and specialty programs.

Sous Chef

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
Miami, FL
01.2014 - 12.2017
  • Oversaw culinary execution across ships serving 3,000+ daily guests.
  • Delivered curated VIP dining experiences in specialty restaurants.
  • Maintained full compliance with USPH and international standards.

Education

Special Culinary Program -

Paul Bocuse Academy
Paris, France
12.2014

Bachelor of Science - Hospitality Management

SLITHM
Colombo, Sri Lanka
01.2013

Skills

  • Multi-Property Operations
  • Full P&L Management
  • Guest Experience & GSS
  • Transformational Leadership
  • Team Empowerment
  • Budgeting & Forecasting
  • F&B Strategy
  • Risk Mitigation
  • Brand Standards
  • Capital Project Oversight

Timeline

Complex Director of Operations

WESTIN HUNTSVILLE & ELEMENT HUNTSVILLE
02.2024 - Current

Director of Food & Beverage

MARRIOTT CHATTANOOGA CONVENTION CENTER
08.2022 - 02.2024

Director of F&B / Executive Chef

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON
08.2019 - 08.2022

Executive Sous Chef

WESTIN
12.2017 - 08.2022

Sous Chef

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
01.2014 - 12.2017

Special Culinary Program -

Paul Bocuse Academy

Bachelor of Science - Hospitality Management

SLITHM

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