Robert Foster (born January 1, 1947) is an American former businessman and politician who served as the mayor of Long Beach, California.

Prior to serving as mayor, Foster climbed the ranks of Southern California Edison, becoming president in 2002.

Foster was appointed to the California State University Board of Trustees in 1998 by Governor Pete Wilson.

He attended San Jose State University for his undergraduate studies, majoring in public administration.

Noting his experience working in the private and public sectors, Foster campaigned on a platform that called for an end to the city's mounting deficit.