ESOblog 8 March 2021 How Catherine’s different leadership roles have shaped her perspective of science. What were Catherine’s most memorable moments as Director General of ESO. What Catherine is most looking forward to in the future of astronomy. In celebration of International Women’s Day, we spoke to Catherine Cesarsky, who was ESO Director General between 1999 and 2007. Since then, she has taken on a number of prestigious leadership roles including President of the International Astronomical Union and High Commissioner for Atomic Energy in France. We find out how she got into astrophysics, about her most recent leadership role and what she is looking forward to in the future.