Step 1: Concept
Management is divided into three levels: Top, Middle, and Lower (Supervisory). Each level has distinct roles and responsibilities.
Step 2: Meaning
Middle management acts as a link between top and lower management. They execute policies and manage specific departments.
Step 3: Analysis
• Interpreting the policies framed by top management is a core task of middle managers.
• Ensuring that their specific department has necessary personnel (staffing) is a middle management function.
• Motivating people in their department to achieve objectives is also the responsibility of middle-level departmental heads.
• Analysing the broader business environment and ensuring the overall survival and welfare of the firm is the primary strategic responsibility of Top Management (like the CEO or Board of Directors).
Step 4: Conclusion
Because statement (A) describes a Top Management function, it is not a function of middle-level management.
Final Answer: (A)