N.C. Gen. Stat. § 147-36.1
The duly classified Deputy Secretary of State as reflected by the records of the State Department of Personnel, appointed by the Secretary of State to aid him in the discharge of his duties, shall have the authority to perform all acts and duties of the office in the absence of his chief, or in the case of his inability to act, or under his direction. In exercising such authority, certificates relating to documents and other filings, shall be issued in the name of the Secretary of State, printed, typed, stamped or facsimile signature, and signed by the Deputy Secretary of State.
Employees in the office of the Secretary of State designated as deputy or director of specific divisions in the Department, are empowered to issue certificates relating to documents and other filings within the scope of their division. In exercising such authority the certificates shall be issued in the name of the Secretary of State, printed, typed, stamped or facsimile signature, and signed by the deputy or director indicating his approved title. Provided, however, that if the volume of documents or certificates to be issued makes an embossed seal and the autograph signature of the deputy or director impractical, the documents may be certified and certificates issued under the facsimile signature and seal of the Secretary of State only.
N.C. Gen. Stat. § 147-36.1