Business

Rachel Blackburn MBA, CEO of Norwich-based US2U Consulting Ltd, has been awarded the prestigious MBE in the King's New Year's Honours List for her exceptional contributions and services to the Business Community and to Exports.

This recognition highlights Rachel's tireless dedication to advancing local, national and international business success whilst supporting a range of community organisations. She has also supported the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion agenda in business and the community.

In response to the announcement Rachel stated, "I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from His Majesty the King. This award is a reflection of the incredible support I have received from my team, my family, clients, suppliers, my friends and the broader community. Together we've made significant strides and this honour will inspire us to continue pushing boundaries and making a positive difference".

Rachel's contributions include:

• Working with local, national and international businesses in various parts of the world over many years to support their growth strategies.

• Developing opportunities for exporting for US2U Consulting and for clients.

• Promoting equality, diversity and inclusion via client and community projects with a view to encouraging more opportunities, particularly for those requiring specific support.

"We are very pleased that Rachel's determined efforts, working for the common good of our business community have been so deservedly acknowledged in this way." - Leszek Wysocki, recently retired International Trade Advisor, Department of Business and Trade.

An MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) is a UK honour awarded for significant achievement or outstanding service to the community, typically in fields such as the arts, sciences, charity, public service or industry.

For more information, interviews or media enquiries please contact:

Rachel Blackburn

US2U Consulting Ltd

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+44 (0) 7786 263610

It was a special day celebrating the MBE Investiture of US2U Consulting Founder & CEO, Rachel Blackburn, at Buckingham Palace on Friday 28th March 2025.

It was a fantastic day for Rachel, walking through the gates of the Palace and being presented with her MBE medal from Anne, The Princess Royal, alongside her husband, son & sister as the three invited guests recipients can bring along with them to the ceremony.

During the customary two-minute conversation that recipients have with the member of The Royal Family presenting the award, Rachel spoke with Her Royal Highness about establishing her business, US2U Consulting, in 2006; the hard work that has followed over the last nineteen years - with Princess Anne often renowned as the hardest-working Royal; and Rachel's ambitions of continuing to put Norfolk on the international map from a business and exporting point of view.

Rachel was awarded her MBE in the New Year Honours List 2025 for services to Business & to Exports (read the full announcement story here).

The day was topped off by perfect spring weather for photos in the courtyard and outside Buckingham Palace, before heading to Claridge's for a celebratory lunch. It was great for Rachel to be joined by other family and friends who had come down to London to celebrate too.

Congratulations Rachel, from the US2U Consulting team!

Thank you for the celebratory messages we have received on Rachel's behalf. Watch the videos below for a glimpse into the morning spent at Buckingham Palace.

"I am humbled and honoured to be in receipt of this MBE award from The Princess Royal, and being able to celebrate at Buckingham Palace with family and friends. It's an amazing way to end March 2025!" said Rachel after the ceremony.

Contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to learn how she and US2U Consulting team can make a positive difference to your business, or assist with your own exporting journey.