Robert J. Foster, B.A, M.A. (Economics), CFA, is the Founder, President and CEO of Capital Canada Limited, an independent investment banking firm. Mr. Foster focuses on the entrepreneur in the private markets, negotiating and structuring mergers, acquisitions, and financings. He has a long history of successful transactions, with a particular emphasis on aviation, media, sports and entertainment and real estate. His background includes periods as an analyst, director of research, corporate finance, sales, and director of sales.
Mr. Foster currently serves on the board of Hunter Amenities, Securcor and Anthem Media Group. In the past, he has served on the boards of Intertape Polymer Group, CHC Helicopters, Golf Town, Cargojet, Canada 3000 and Canadian Airlines Regional in addition to currently serving on a number of private company boards.
He recently stepped down as Chair of TO Live, a board appointed by the Toronto City Council which is responsible for overseeing the business affairs and operation management of the Toronto Theatres. Mr. Foster serves as Chair of Business and Arts, an organization which connects arts professionals to business patrons and volunteers across the country. He also serves on the boards of the Ontario Art Council, the Harbourfront Foundation, and the TO Live (Chair), and previously served as the Co-chair of The Mayor’s Task Force- Arts & Theatre, Chair of Toronto Artscape, Chair of The Canadian Arts Summit, board member of The National Arts Centre – Ontario Scene and The Toronto Theatres Working Group.
In 2011, Mr. Foster was the lead Co-Chair for a year-long examination of Toronto’s cultural capacity and priorities, which resulted in the Creative Capital Report for the City of Toronto. This has been embraced by City Council and is a guiding document for the city’s cultural funding and growth moving forward. Robert Foster was awarded with the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal and named co-recipient of the Rita Davies and Margo Bindhardt Cultural Leader Award. This award is presented biennially to an individual who has demonstrated cultural leadership in the development of arts and culture in Toronto.
Robert Foster has generously donated his time, expertise, and financial support to more than 30 city and country-building initiatives and organizations. He is proud of his wife Julia Foster and four grown children, who all also contribute to the enrichment of our community.
Mr. Foster was born in Vancouver and educated at the University of British Columbia and Queen’s University where he received his B.A. and M.A. (Economics) and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Charterholder.