Clifton A. Foster has built a career at the intersection of international finance, economic policy, and global investment. For more than four decades, he has served governments, financial institutions, corporations, and private investors on international finance, investment, trade, and competitiveness. His experience spans leadership roles in government, international banking, and private wealth management.

In the private sector, Mr. Foster held leadership positions with Bessemer Trust, The Tower Companies, Citibank Private Bank, and Saudi American Bank (SAMBA). As Senior Client Advisor at Bessemer Trust, he advised ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families on wealth preservation, investment strategy, governance, and multigenerational financial planning. Following his retirement from Bessemer Trust, he continues to independently advise select individuals on investment and family wealth matters.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Foster was an Economics Research Analyst with U.S.–Saudi Joint Economic Commission (JECOR), serving within the Saudi Ministry of Finance and National Economy while on secondment from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, contributing to economic analysis and bilateral financial cooperation during a period of the Kingdom’s significant economic development. He also served as an International Trade Advisor with the U.S. Department of Commerce and as a Trade Analyst with the Office of the United States Special Representative for Trade Negotiations, supporting U.S. international trade policy and commercial engagement. He began his international career with International Marine Services, an offshore oil services company based in Dubai.

Mr. Foster has also maintained commitment to civic, cultural, and public policy institutions. He was a member of the Wilson Council of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, supporting the Center’s work in international affairs and public policy. He served on the Finance and Investment Committee of the Board of Trustees of the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.

Most recently, Mr. Foster participated as a panelist at the invitation of the President of Timor-Leste, José Ramos-Horta, addressing senior government officials, business leaders, and university students on competitiveness, foreign investment, and economic development.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mr. Foster is a National Member of The Explorers Club in New York. His expeditions to Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Australia, Timor-Leste, and Indonesia reflect a longstanding interest in understanding the cultures, histories, and economic landscapes that shape nations.

Mr. Foster holds a Master of International Management from the American Graduate School of International Management (Thunderbird) and a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from the School of International Service at American University. He is a dual citizen of the United States and Portugal.