I signed a non-compete agreement, as a condition of employment for a firm in NYC. At the time, I lived in NJ. However, I decided I wanted to live in NC, and I left NJ and my position early last year.
A competitive company has contacted me to run a different division within their company, and I my customer base would be different. This company is located in NC.
My non-compete states:
"For a period of one year, I will not directly or indirectly, whether as owner, partner, shareholder, consultant, agent, employee, co-venturer or otherwise, engage, participate or invest in any business activity anywhere in the WORLD which develops or markets products or performs services which are competitive with the products or services of the Company."
I have two questions.
1. Will this agreement hold up in NC, if I go to work for a competitor but in a different division in a completely different role?
2. Will the geographic area of "the WORLD" hold up in NC?
Thanks for your help.

