The celebrity manager reflects on his cycle of success and growing roster of artists
Many of us pursue our childhood dreams and interests, but some individuals find successful careers that are not pre-determined by their academic backgrounds. Seasoned talent manager Ramel “Rams” David is a perfect example.
A BS Tourism graduate from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in 1991, Rams initially aimed to work in the tourism industry as a tour operator. However, fate had other plans for him – to break into showbiz.
“It was a leap of faith for me. I’m not a Mass Communications graduate, and I didn’t know much about TV when I entered showbiz in ‘91,” Rams revealed.
His entry into television was unconventional, starting as an apprentice at GMA Network after his aunt encouraged him to apply for an office staff position. He quickly rose through the ranks, eventually replacing Lilybeth Gomez (now Rasonable) as a program coordinator. From 1991 to 2010, Rams steadily climbed the corporate ladder through hard work and perseverance, handling iconic shows like That’s Entertainment, GMA Supershow, Vilma, and Eye to Eye.
His university years at UST played a crucial role in shaping Rams’ skills and interests. His involvement in Teatro Tomasino, the university’s theater organization, provided valuable experience in production and technical assignments, laying the groundwork for his future career in television and artist management.
In 2010, Rams transitioned to artist management when TV and film producer Antonio Tuviera invited him to head Triple A (All Access to Artists). Under Rams’ leadership, Triple A managed major industry names like Marian Rivera and Maine Mendoza. Rams also established his own talent management company with his sisters, specializing in female soap opera stars.
Rams expressed gratitude and pride for his contributions to Triple A. “I am proud of what I have contributed to Triple A. For ten years, I was able to help the company. I was there for Marian and Maine. I am proud of them. They are responsible for their successes, and I was just there to guide them and help them build their careers. I am thankful to Mr. [Tony] Tuviera, Mike Tuviera, Jojo Oconer. They are like family. I love them.”
His approach to talent management is rooted in Rams’ desire to help and nurture his artists. He sees their success as his own and finds fulfillment in their achievements. “Why?,” Rams asked. “Because I want to help. Well, aside from earning commissions, it’s fulfilling to see your artists play different roles in various projects. Their success is my success.” He admitted it has not always been easy, as most of his artists are older than him, requiring him to always be on his toes and on top of his game.
In 2021, Rams resigned from Triple A and rebranded his agency, AGT House of Characters, to Artist Circle. Artist Circle aims to provide comprehensive support to its artists and develop new talents, emphasizing honesty, openness, and effective communication within the growing management team.
Rams takes great pride in having veteran artists under his management. “We have Celia Rodriguez, Chanda Romero, Odette Khan, Sheryl Cruz, Ces Quesada, and now Liza Lorena. I’m just so happy because we get to give them projects. That’s the legacy I wish to leave, being able to help artists.”
Nay [short for Nanay which means mother] Rams is how many of us call him in the industry. His effectiveness as a talent manager can likely be attributed to Rams’ motherly and caring nature. He believes in being sensitive to the needs and feelings of his artists, offering them not just professional guidance but also emotional support. “You should always check on your artists, even the status of their love lives,” Rams explained. “You don’t have to meddle, but your presence is crucial. That’s a tip to aspiring managers. It would help if you’re motherly, sensitive, and caring.”
The upbringing in Tondo with business-minded parents instilled in Rams certain values and a strong work ethic. He learned the importance of hard work from an early age. Rams shared, “My dad was a retailer, and my mom was a dressmaker. I went through so much as a kid. I was immersed in a lot of things like selling and doing chores.”
Through years of hard work, Rams developed a leadership style grounded in humility and a willingness to learn from others.
“You cannot be a leader if you’re not a good follower. I listen to my people. I learn from them. Being the CEO or owner of the company does not guarantee being right all the time,” he explained. “I treat them as my family.” Rams chuckled and subtly corrected himself, noting that his team is primarily composed of actual family members.
In the cutthroat and ever-changing showbiz industry, Rams’ dedication to his artists and nurturing approach make him a standout talent manager. He is a manifestation of perseverance, hard work, and a genuine desire to help others succeed in a fiercely competitive environment. Through his talent management agency and the help of his family, Rams continues to support talents and lead them to achieve their goals and dreams. Success, as they say, does come in circles.