Could you define what makes a mortgage production manager?

The title, and its place in a company's hierarchy, can vary across lenders, but those in the position agree a good production manager should have plenty of experience. The boss overseeing origination activity should know how to handle a difficult customer, resolve loan pricing and underwriting scenarios and be a bridge to other departments for loan officers.

"As the generals, you really need to know what the troops need at all times," said Adam Spiegelman, senior vice president of portfolio retention sales at Planet Home Lending. "You need to be immersed with them so you can best represent their needs to the organization."

Spiegelman began his career as a junior mortgage loan originator, similar to his peers at other lenders. National Mortgage News spoke to industry veterans in a variety of production manager roles and learned about their roles, the tools and metrics they utilize and advice for career risers.