Final answer:
The production manager is tasked with ensuring that products are produced efficiently and of high quality. They make key decisions related to production, staffing, and operations to optimize the manufacturing process.
Step-by-step explanation:
The production manager is responsible for efficiently and effectively producing quality products. Their role encompasses various crucial decisions that impact the firm's operations, such as whether to expand or reduce production, set the price for goods, open or close facilities, and hire or lay off workers. Unlike theatre producers who may handle budgeting, hiring, and raising funds for a show, the production manager in a manufacturing context focuses on overseeing the manufacturing process, ensuring products meet quality standards, and that production is carried out in a cost-effective manner.