A hedge fund manager is a professional who oversees and makes investment decisions for a hedge fund, which is a pooled investment vehicle that uses various strategies to earn high returns for its investors. These managers analyze market trends, economic data, and individual securities to identify profitable opportunities while managing risks. Hedge fund managers often employ diverse strategies, including long and short positions, leverage, and derivatives. They typically charge a management fee and a performance fee based on the fund's profits. Their goal is to achieve high returns, often regardless of market conditions, making them distinct from traditional investment managers.