US2U Consulting Founder & CEO Rachel Blackburn has been featured in the October edition of Norfolk Magazine, in the 'Why I Love Norfolk' series, in which she shares some of her favourite aspects of living and growing up in the county. Read the Norfolk Magazine feature below:
Norfolk Magazine Interview, October 2025
WHY I LOVE NORFOLK
Rachel Blackburn
This month we meet the founder of international management consultancy USU Consulting, who earlier this year was made an MBE for services to the business community and to export in the King's New Year Honours List.
PLEASE TELL US YOUR FAVOURITE NORFOLK...
Memory
"As a young child I lived in Old Buckenham with my grandparents. A fond memory is foraging for blackberries grandmother. I loved the experience of finding and gathering the experience of glossy, juicy berries and returning home to help bake a blackberry and apple pie."
Landmark
"Norwich Cathedral. It is such a timeless and majestic building; it feels alive with history. I visit the cathedral and The Close frequently and they always bring a sense of calm in what can be a fast-paced, stressful world. It has also been a big part of my life as my son, Kerwin Blackburn, attended Norwich School and we continue to support it with a number of projects."
Beach
"Cromer. It is usually easy to park there and then it's a short walk to a beautiful wide beach. There are lots of cafés and, of course, the famous Cromer Pier with its Pavilion Theatre. which hosts an eclectic mix of shows all year round."
Town/city/village
"Having started work in Norwich back in September 1982 at Norwich Union, now Aviva, I have always loved the atmosphere of the city. Reflecting on how it has changed over the years, I am pleased that it is now seen as a more diverse and inclusive city. The universities and the hospital have helped to achieve this by attracting more diverse populations of students and staff."
Place to eat
"The Ivy in Norwich. Having visited the original Ivy in London in the days when I would often have to book several weeks in advance, I love that we now have a similar menu in Norwich. The staff are particularly good at providing some special extras when the meal is a celebration and, as a mother of someone with a severe peanut allergy, they always show a great understanding as to how to manage allergies."
Pub
"Our village does not have a pub. Instead we have Heathlands Social Club as our local, in Blofield Heath. It provides a wide range of activities including music, bingo and two beer festivals a year. It's a members' organisation and it has taster memberships for those wishing to try the experience. Like a lot of rural communities, it can take a while for people to get to know you, however there is always a warm welcome from the staff and the committee members."
Attraction or day out
"A favourite day out in the summer is taking a day boat trip on the Norfolk Broads from Wroxham. Travelling down the River Bure, a favourite stop off point is Salhouse Broad. A trip on the Broads is usually tranquil, timeless and good for the soul - unless you arrive in the middle of a sailing race, which has occasionally happened!"
Shop
"It has to be Jarrolds in Norwich. It's a great go-to place for make-up, gifts and clothes, not forgetting the wine bar and the fabulous seafood restaurant, The Bay, which is always a good spot to meet friends and catch up."
Walk
"My current favourite walk is around where I live in Hemblington. Whether it's a working from home lunchtime walk or a quick sunset stroll later in the day, there is nothing better than putting on my wellington boots and striding off. As a mental health first-aider I think it's important to focus on the benefits of getting out into nature as a practical tonic to help manage the stresses, strains and challenges of everyday life."
Export
"As a Department of Business and Trade export champion, I have two favourites. I have travelled a lot and am always so proud to spot a jar of Colman's mustard in shops and restaurants around the world. I am also proud of the international work that my business, US2U Consulting, has delivered for clients in various parts of the world including the US, Dubai, Canada, Saudi Arabia and Dublin."