Lennie Mullen, executive director of Rape Response Services in Bangor, has resigned her position effective Friday, Dec. 13.

Mullen, well-known in the Bangor area for her knowledge of women’s issues, has accepted a job as interim executive director of the Maine State Democratic Party. She will start her new duties on Monday, Dec. 16, in Augusta.

Barbara Bowler, president of the board of directors for Rape Response Services, said a search has begun for Mullen’s successor. Options are being considered for restructuring the job to possibly include flextime and job sharing. Generous benefits will be stressed to make the position attractive to applicants, Bowler said.

Bowler expressed regret at losing Mullen but said the new post was Mullen’s “dream job.” Mullen did not return calls Thursday.

Mullen was hired as executive director of Rape Response Services in January 1989. The organization offers a 24-hour, 365-day-a-year crisis hotline for sexual assault victims. It also sponsors support groups for rape and incest survivors, Bowler said.