She has held several prominent roles, as a Secretary of the Ministries of Health, Petroleum Resource Development, Plantation Industries, and Women Affairs. Her leadership as the Director General has also significantly impacted key Departments such as the Department of Management Services, National Budget, and Sri Lanka Customs. She made history as the First Female Director General of Sri Lanka Customs.

Following her retirement, Ms. Karunaratne continued her dedication to the Public Service as a Member of the Public Service Commission and the Procurement Appeal Board. Since May 2023, she has been the Chairperson of the National Procurement Commission, furthering her commitment to enhancing public sector governance.

Ms. Karunaratne holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Carlton University, Canada, and a Bachelor of Arts degree (Special) in Geography with First Class Honours from the University of Sri Jayawardenepura, Sri Lanka.