From Chip Recycling to Business Development: Annette’s Journey to Sprout

At Sprout, our best resource isn’t just our platform — it’s our people. That’s why we’re spotlighting Annette Roccapalumba, a powerhouse on our Business Development team whose journey shows how culture, curiosity, and collaboration drive everything we do. 

When Annette first entered the IT industry over 30 years ago, “asset management” didn’t even exist. She cut her teeth in chip recycling, then rode the wave as data centers grew in the early 2000s.

“I’d always been impressed with Sprout,” Annette recalls. “Shelly reached out to me for years, but I was comfortable where I was.When things shifted at my old company, I knew the timing was finally right. I came to Sacramento, met Shelly, and it didn’t even feel like an interview, it just felt like we already knew each other. I flew home knowing, this is it, Sprout is where I want to be.” 

What drew Annette in and what’s kept her here is the culture. “I thought I had a good culture before, but this tops it,” she says. “Everyone is so welcoming and accessible. At Sprout, I feel supported instead of siloed. It’s a positive challenge that makes me want to do more.”

On the business development side, Annette lights up when she talks about Sprout’s proprietary platform. “It’s a total game changer,” she explains. “Customers love that they can self-service, especially during audits. No one else in the industry has something like it.” 

But the platform is only half the story. The other half is people. Customers who’ve worked with Annette across companies continue to bring her and Sprout along for the ride. “Word of mouth has been huge. They’ll switch jobs and immediately say, ‘You have to work with Sprout.’ That’s the biggest compliment.” 

Inside Sprout, Annette says she’s grown in unexpected ways. She’s become more technical and, most importantly, learned to be part of a truly collaborative team. “In my past roles, BDs hoarded opportunities. At Sprout, we share and support each other. That’s how we all win.” 

Outside of work, Annette is a self-described “introvert in disguise.” She loves concerts and spontaneous adventures but secretly treasures her quiet nights.

Looking ahead, she’s excited about Sprout’s growth from expanding in Europe to rolling out new services that open doors with customers. “I have no regrets. This is exactly where I’m supposed to be.” 

Annette’s story is proof that Sprout’s true strength isn’t just in our technology or services; it’s in the people who bring them to life every day.