Westgate Resorts has announced the appointment of Kim Tankersley as General Manager of Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Bringing more than 26 years of experience in hospitality and vacation ownership leadership, Tankersley will oversee the resort’s operations, focusing on operational excellence, team development and memorable guest experiences.
The appointment reflects Westgate Resorts’ continued commitment to strengthening its leadership team and supporting the long-term growth of its resort portfolio.
Kim Tankersley’s Career in Hospitality
Kim Tankersley brings extensive experience managing large-scale resort operations across the hospitality and vacation ownership sectors. Throughout his career, he has held leadership positions within the Club Wyndham and Travel + Leisure Co. timeshare businesses, overseeing prominent properties in the Smoky Mountains, Myrtle Beach and Branson.
His professional background includes significant experience in resort operations, team leadership, sales partnerships and guest service management. These roles have given him a strong understanding of the operational demands of large vacation destinations and the importance of delivering consistent experiences for guests and vacation owners.
Tankersley has also contributed to the opening of more than 13 resorts across the United States, demonstrating his experience in resort development, operational planning and property launches.
Leadership Experience and Industry Recognition
Before joining Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park, Tankersley served as Area Vice President for Capital Vacations, overseeing resorts throughout the Midwest.
His career achievements include a nomination for the American Resort Development Association’s General Manager of the Year award and recognition for environmental sustainability initiatives through an ARDA award.
He was also selected multiple times for Club Wyndham’s Presidents Club as a top sales and operations partner. These achievements reflect his contributions to resort management, operational performance and collaboration across hospitality teams.
With experience spanning multiple resort markets, Tankersley brings a broad perspective on managing vacation destinations while maintaining service standards and supporting business objectives.
New Responsibilities at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park
As General Manager, Tankersley will lead the overall operations of Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park, one of Westgate Resorts’ prominent destinations.
His responsibilities will include overseeing operational performance, supporting team engagement and maintaining a focus on guest satisfaction. He will also work to strengthen the resort experience for vacation owners and leisure travellers visiting the Smoky Mountains.
His background in managing large-scale resort operations is expected to support the property’s continued development, with an emphasis on efficient management, service quality and memorable stays.
Supporting the Resort’s Continued Growth
The appointment comes as resort operators continue to focus on delivering experiences that combine comfortable accommodation, recreational activities and attentive hospitality.
With more than two decades of industry experience, Tankersley brings practical knowledge of resort operations and vacation ownership management to his new position.
His leadership will be important in supporting the resort’s operational priorities while helping maintain its appeal to families, holidaymakers and vacation owners visiting Gatlinburg.
About Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park
Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park is located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, near the Great Smoky Mountains. The resort offers a vacation destination for travellers seeking accommodation and recreational experiences close to the region’s natural attractions.
Its water park and resort facilities provide options for families and leisure travellers looking to combine relaxation with entertainment during their stay.
Gatlinburg’s location near Great Smoky Mountains National Park makes it a popular base for visitors interested in scenic landscapes, outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions.
About Westgate Resorts
Westgate Resorts is a hospitality company specialising in vacation ownership, resorts and leisure accommodation. Its portfolio includes properties in a range of destinations across the United States, serving families, holidaymakers and vacation owners.
The company focuses on providing resort experiences that combine accommodation, recreational amenities and guest services.
With Kim Tankersley taking on the role of General Manager at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park, the company adds an experienced hospitality leader to its operations in Gatlinburg. His background in resort management, property openings and vacation ownership will support the property’s ongoing focus on operational performance and guest experience.
