US2U Consulting Celebrates Its 20 Year Anniversary: Two Decades of Making a Positive Difference

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Published: Wednesday, 01 April 2026 18:32

1 April 2026 marks a significant milestone for US2U Consulting as the business celebrates its 20th anniversary, having been founded in 2006 by Rachel Blackburn MBE.

Over the past two decades, US2U Consulting has worked with organisations across the UK and internationally, supporting leaders and teams to strengthen performance, make better strategic decisions and achieve sustainable growth. Built on a commitment to delivering practical, tailored consultancy, the business has developed long-standing relationships with clients across a wide range of sectors.

Reflecting on the anniversary, Rachel Blackburn highlighted the importance of the people and partnerships that have shaped the journey so far. She noted that the success of US2U Consulting has been built on collaboration - with clients, partners, suppliers and colleagues all playing a vital role in helping the business grow and evolve over the past 20 years.

To mark the occasion, Rachel met with members of the Broadland and South Norfolk Council Economic Development Team (pictured with Rachel below), recognising the strong local connections that have supported the business since its early days. US2U Consulting has always been based in the Broadland area of Norfolk, and the relationship with the local economic development team has played an important role in supporting both the company and its clients.

Jane Bagley from the Economic Development Team commented: “It was great to be able to celebrate US2U Consulting’s 20th anniversary and to discuss an exciting future of collaboration.”

Rachel added: “The Economic Development Team at Broadland and South Norfolk Council have supported our business and some of our clients over several years, providing access to relevant grants that have enabled our growth and resilience.”

The anniversary was also marked with a celebratory cake featuring US2U Consulting’s signature jigsaw pieces - reflecting the company’s long-standing belief that it can be the missing piece for organisations seeking to unlock growth, overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

As we celebrate this milestone, US2U Consulting would like to thank everyone who has been involved with or supported our journey over the last twenty years. We look forward to continuing to making a positive difference for organisations.

Building Resilience For Start-ups and Entrepreneurs: Free Norfolk Training Session by US2U Consulting, 8 April 2026

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Published: Tuesday, 17 March 2026 13:14

Rachel Blackburn will be leading an exclusive in-person session this April, focusing on helping start-ups and entrepreneurs across East Anglia build stronger, more resilient businesses. This session is one of our 20 initiatives we are marking our 20th anniversary as a company with throughout 2026.

Hosted at the Broadland Food Innovation Centre, this high-impact session will introduce a practical strategic framework for developing robust, scalable business plans. Attendees will gain valuable commercial insights for sustainable growth, alongside real-world tools and approaches that can be applied immediately.

Designed for early‑stage ventures across the region, this free workshop will equip you with actionable tools, commercial insight and real‑world strategies you can put into practice straight away. If you're serious about turning your idea into a scalable business, this is a session you won’t want to miss. The session will support clearer thinking, stronger planning and more confident decision-making for your business.

Wednesday 8 April 2026, 10:00 – 12:00 | Location: Broadland Food Innovation Centre, NR9 5FX

Sign up to this in-person event on Eventbrite

Rachel Blackburn attends Change the Race Ratio event at Mansion House, London

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Published: Wednesday, 11 March 2026 18:33

Rachel Blackburn recently attended the latest Change the Race Ratio gathering at Mansion House in London on Tuesday 10 March, where business leaders and signatories came together to review the latest findings from the 2026 Parker Review and discuss ongoing progress in improving racial and ethnic diversity within UK business leadership.

Change the Race Ratio is a UK business-led campaign that encourages organisations to increase ethnic minority representation on boards and within senior leadership teams. Working alongside the Parker Review, the initiative seeks to drive measurable and lasting change across the UK corporate landscape.

This year’s Parker Review shows strong engagement from major UK companies. All FTSE 100 companies submitted diversity data, along with 92% of FTSE 250 organisations, demonstrating continued commitment to monitoring and improving representation.

The report also highlights progress at board level. 303 companies in the FTSE 350 now have at least one ethnic minority director, with 482 ethnic minority board directors overall, representing 17.3% of board positions, rising to 20% within the FTSE 100.

However, the Review also identified areas where further progress is needed. Black representation among FTSE 350 board directors has slightly declined, and Black leaders remain significantly underrepresented in senior management, with representation currently at 1.3%. Events such as this provide an opportunity for business leaders to review progress, share insights and strengthen commitments to building more diverse and inclusive leadership across UK organisations.

Pictured is: David Tyler, retiring Chairman of The Parker Review (top left), Rachel Blackburn with Lord Karan Bilimoria (top right), and Rachel with former Dragon Den's dragon Piers Linney (bottom right).

To find out how we can help your organisation develop its Diversity and Inclusion strategies, please contact Rachel Blackburn at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for an exploratory conversation.

Celebrating International Women’s Day: Recognising Women in Business and Trade

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Published: Sunday, 08 March 2026 14:44

To mark International Women’s Day 2026, US2U Consulting is proud to support an initiative led by the UK Department for Business and Trade that celebrates the achievements of women recognised through the UK Honours system.

The campaign highlights inspiring women whose work has made a meaningful impact in their industries and communities, helping to raise awareness of the Honours system and encourage nominations for outstanding individuals across the UK.

Among those recognised is Rachel Blackburn MBE, who was awarded an MBE in the King’s New Year Honours List 2025 for her support to the business community and for her contribution to exports.

Reflecting on the recognition, Rachel said: “I am humbled and honoured to have received an MBE for support to the business community and to exports in the King’s New Years Honours List 2025. 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of US2U Consulting, the international management consultancy business that I launched in 2006. One of the company values is to be Inspirational. I hope that I am using the recognition that I have received to inspire others to take themselves out of their comfort zone to achieve their personal and professional goals.”

Rachel’s recognition highlights the important role women play in strengthening international business relationships and supporting UK exports. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, stories like Rachel’s serve as a reminder of the value of recognising and championing the achievements of women across business, trade and wider society.

Reflections from US2U Consulting’s latest work experience student

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Published: Thursday, 19 February 2026 14:52

US2U Consulting is proud to continue its long-standing commitment to supporting young people by offering meaningful work experience opportunities, as part of our sustainability strategy. Since our launch in 2006, we have welcomed students from local schools, as well as university-level students from across the region, providing them with valuable insight into the world of consulting while helping them develop skills that will support their future careers.

We are delighted to have recently hosted Elizabeth Mumbure, a fourteen year old student from Ormiston Victory Academy in Norwich, and we invite you to read about her experience and the impact this opportunity has had on her personal and professional growth, below.

"My name is Elizabeth Mumbure and I am a year ten student at Ormiston Victory Academy. I was eager to reach out to local consulting businesses to gain valuable experience. US2U was kind enough to offer the opportunity to do my work experience. I felt welcomed, supported and valued.

"My time at US2U Consulting was meaningful and inspiring and helped me to grow both professionally and personally. What I found most inspiring was the culture of continuous learning and mentorship. Which not only enhanced my professional abilities but also fuelled my passion for making a tangible impact.

"Working with US2U was an invaluable experience the boosted my understanding and both interest in consulting. I also had the chance to learn about Brand Values and Equality Act 2010 which enriched my understanding of the diverse of six principle areas in business. This opportunity has also strengthened skills such as critical thinking, team work, problem solving and professional communication which will be invaluable in my future.

"I am genuinely grateful for the skills that l gained at US2U Consulting. It has significantly shaped my career goals and I am excited to apply them as l move forward. Thank you for a truly rewarding experience l wish you and your company all the best."

If you are interested in gaining work experience at US2U Consulting, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with a suggestion of what you have to offer and what you would be looking to get out of the experience.

Marking 20 Years with a Wapscallions Norfolk Party Night

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Published: Thursday, 12 February 2026 18:00

US2U Consulting is pleased to celebrate its 20 year anniversary in 2026, and we are marking this milestone with a number of celebrations and community initiatives throughout 2026.

The first of these events saw us sponsor a party night for the local community at Heathlands Social Club in Norfolk, England where the company is based, on Saturday 7 February, featuring one of Norfolk's best covers band, Wapscallions.

This event also acted as a fundraiser for Heathlands, with entry tickets and the raffle raising over £500 for the venue. It was a great night and the perfect way to kick off our 2026 20th anniversary celebrations.

"The bar at the Wapscallions gig was very successful and the income generated will make a significant contribution to the running costs of Heathlands" said Paul Grainger, Chairman of Heathlands Social Club.

Stay tuned to see what else we have planned this year. This initiative was in line with our sustainability strategy, as part of our pillar of supporting the community.

Find out more about how US2U Consulting guarantee to make a positive difference to enable organisations and individuals to become more successful and achieve their goals.

US2U Consulting's Rachel Blackburn MBE Leads Open University Webinar on the Strategic Value of Leadership Education

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Published: Tuesday, 03 February 2026 13:09

Rachel Blackburn MBE, founder of US2U Consulting, recently hosted a compelling webinar in collaboration with The Open University Business School titled "Making the Case for Leadership Education." This session delved into the critical importance of investing in leadership development as a strategic asset for organisations navigating today's complex business environment.

Rachel graduated with her MBA from The Open University in 2004 so was pleased to collaborate with the university for this initiative.

Key Takeaways from the Webinar:

• Leadership drives resilience: Investing in leadership education helps organisations navigate disruption and sustain long-term performance.

• Immediate, practical impact: Speakers shared how postgraduate study strengthened strategic, financial, and operational decision-making in senior roles.

• Make the business case: Align leadership development with organisational goals, productivity, and retention to position it as a value-creating investment.

The webinar is now available to watch on demand. It offers valuable insights for organisations aiming to enhance their leadership capabilities and drive growth through strategic education investments.

Visit The Open University website to watch the webinar recording

To learn how US2U Consulting can make positive difference to your organisation or leadership team, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Celebrating 20 Years of US2U Consulting in 2026

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Published: Thursday, 08 January 2026 08:58

2026 marks a very special milestone for US2U Consulting as we celebrate 20 years of working alongside organisations and individuals to help them succeed.

As we launch our 20th anniversary year since our founding in 2006, we want to take this opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you to our clients, team members, associate consultants, partners and suppliers. Your trust, collaboration and support over the past two decades have made this journey possible, and we are immensely grateful to every person and organisation who has been part of the US2U story.

To mark this milestone, we are proud to unveil our 20th anniversary logo, which will be used throughout 2026 as a symbol of our journey so far - and our commitment to the future.

A vision that started in 2006

Reflecting on the origins of the business, Rachel Blackburn MBE, Founder and CEO of US2U Consulting, said:

“Back in 2006 I had a vision that I would work with some of the UK’s leading experts in their field so that we could provide a range of boutique management services that enable businesses and people to be more successful.

I am so proud that 20 years on we have a strong track record of doing this across all sectors, in the UK and internationally, and continue to do so.”

Since its founding, US2U Consulting has grown into a trusted consultancy delivering coaching, training and management support across a wide range of sectors, while remaining true to its boutique, people-centred approach.

Pictured above is US2U Consulting Founder and CEO Rachel Blackburn MBE marking 20 years of the company.

Looking ahead: 20 things for 20 years

Celebrating the past is important - but so is looking forward.

Throughout 2026, we plan to deliver 20 activities aligned to our sustainability strategy. These initiatives will reflect our commitment to responsible business, positive impact and long-term value for people, organisations and communities.

Further details of these activities will be announced over the course of the year.

We would also love your ideas. If you have suggestions for initiatives we could include as part of our anniversary year, please get in touch with Rachel at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Journeys shared from the very beginning

Chris Croft, Associate Consultant at US2U Consulting and a team member since the very beginning, shared his reflections on the journey:

“When Rachel first started at her previous consultancy, where I was working at the time, it was like a whirlwind had arrived. I knew within five minutes she would end up running the company and then run her own business - and that’s pretty much how it went.

I carried on just doing training, while she became a director and then started US2U, which has since grown to a serious operation, covering a range of coaching and training and consulting services.

Rachel’s energy and creativity amazes me. People often describe me as energetic, but next to her I feel almost exhausted! And it does take that kind of mental power to push the boulder up the mountain and create a successful business, as she has done.

So I watch with interest and admiration to see what she’ll do next - the story isn’t finished yet!”

Jan Baynham, Associate Consultant, who has also been on the team since day one, reflected:

"We have seen many changes over the last 20 years including the economy, technology, and the emphasis on sustainability. However, business needs are ongoing with respect to tailored employee development and robust assessment, and US2U Consulting has been consistent in its commitment to delivering the best for its clients throughout this period.

Congratulations to all at US2U Consulting who have made the last 20 years possible."

Meanwhile Mike Boniface, Managing Director of Boniface Engineering Ltd - who was US2U Consulting's first client back in 2006 - remarked:

"As a leading international supplier of quality tow trucks and recovery vehicles we were pleased to have been the first client for US2U Consulting back in 2006. During the last 20 years Rachel and her colleagues have supported us with many different projects which have contributed to our continued business success

It's great to celebrate their 20th anniversary as we continue to work together to make a positive difference."

Thank you for being part of our story

As we celebrate our 20th year, we do so with pride in what has been achieved - and excitement for what lies ahead. Thank you for being part of the US2U Consulting journey. We look forward to continuing to work with you throughout 2026 and beyond.

Do you have any particular favourite memories of working with US2U Consulting and the team that you'd like to share with us? We'd love to hear from you! Please let us know at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Throughout 2026 we will be sharing our favourite memories, client success stories and images from our photo archive over the last 20 years - so keep an eye out for these!

Export Champions US2U Meet with The British Embassy in Tokyo, Japan

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Published: Tuesday, 09 December 2025 15:03

As an Export Champion, CEO of US2U Consulting Rachel Blackburn recently visited the British Embassy in Tokyo, Japan to meet with James Carter, Deputy Head of Trade. James is part of the UK Government's Department for Business and Trade.

In addition to discussing a specific requirement for one of our clients who is looking to do more business in the Japanese market, Rachel and James discussed general advice for businesses planning to sell products or services into Japan:

1. The Department for Business and Trade in Tokyo is structured around the UK industrial strategy and has sector specialists who can have informal discussions with UK business planning to export into the Japanese market.

2. The sector specialists offer a triage-type service which may include conducting desk research to understand the market and key players. In some cases they may be able to arrange meetings with potential customers to enable British businesses to understand if there is a good fit for their products and services.

3. The overall message is that doing business with Japan is achievable and it may be that more British businesses should consider this a priority for exporting.

4. As with most international business development, it will take time to build and nurture relationships prior to agree to do business. In Japan this may take a two year commitment before seeing a direct return on investment so British businesses may take a realistic and pragmatic approach, planning budgets and resource accordingly.

5. If new to the Japanese market, the focus should be to get the first Japanese client, build credibility and trust; this should then inspire other Japanese clients to trust you and your brand. As with any international business development it is helpful to research current cultural differences to be aware of.

6. The Japanese market is quite price-sensitive so businesses will need to present a competitive offering.

7. Japanese business people tend to be quite loyal once the trust has been built.

8. Once the contract has been agreed Japanese businesses usually pay in line with the terms and significant late payments are not usually an issue.

9. Key sectors with opportunities at the moment appear to be automotive and international education. Currently a growing opportunity is to provide Chinese students a British-style education in Japan.

10. In addition to the IS-8 sectors (financial services, professional services, life sciences, technology, creative, defence, clean energy and advanced manufacturing) there are opportunities in the market in areas such as international education, food & drink and commercial & retail products.

Please contact Rachel to discuss your international business development strategies in more detail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Other Department for Business and Trade resources to help you explore whether Japan could be right for your business include Expand in Japan and the International Markets Form | DBT's Export Support Service.

UK Export Academy Webinar: Business Skills Coaching and Developing Your People for Business Growth - Delivered by Rachel Blackburn MBE

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Published: Monday, 08 December 2025 17:56

Rachel Blackburn MBE, Founder and Director of US2U Consulting, delivered a webinar for the UK Department for Business and Trade's UK Export Academy on the topic of 'Business Skills Coaching and Developing Your People for Business Growth' on 27 November 2025.

The session was well attended online and the content of the webinar was well-received by enthusiastic and ambitious attendees looking to develop their organisation's export capabilities.

Watch the recording of the webinar below, and explore Our Services or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to learn more about how US2U Consulting can help your business and its exporting goals.